Using your inhaler (puffer) properly is important when you have asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Show
This short clip shows you how to use a standard metered dose inhaler (MDI), often called a puffer. MedicationsA standard puffer is used with many different medications. These include:
Checklist of steps
Common problems
Your inhaler will come with instructions in the package. Always check the package insert for any specific instructions. Tips
Getting the most out of your inhalerAsk your doctor, pharmacist or asthma & respiratory educator to:
Different brands of inhalers sometimes have slightly different instructions to each other for similar steps. The checklists in our How-To Video library have been simplified and standardised where possible to reduce confusion. Your inhaler will come with instructions in the package. Always check the package insert for any specific instructions. Other inhaler typesSee our complete How-to video library for other inhaler types and how to use them. AcknowledgementThanks to Ms Judi Wicking, asthma and respiratory educator, and the patient who participated in this film clip. Development of this How-to video was supported by the Australian Government Department of Veterans' Affairs as part of the Prevent Puffer Problems campaign. The National Asthma Council Australia retained editorial control. DisclaimerAlthough all care has been taken, this video is a general guide only, which is not a substitute for assessment of appropriate courses of treatment on a case-by-case basis. The National Asthma Council Australia expressly disclaims all responsibility (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or personal injury resulting from reliance on the information contained herein. beginning of content
If you have asthma, you may need to use one or more asthma medications to manage the condition. It is important that you use your asthma inhaler correctly to get the full benefit of the medication you are taking. Most people with asthma, however, do not use the correct technique. What is an asthma inhaler?Most asthma medicines are inhaled through the mouth using an inhaler or puffer. There are several types and the device you use will depend on your age, how your lungs work and which device you find easiest to use. A doctor, pharmacist or nurse should show you how to take your asthma medicine. Some medicines are breathed in directly from the inhaler; others are breathed in through a 'spacer' — you puff the medicine into a container and breathe through a mouthpiece at the other end. This increases the amount of medicine that reaches the small airways of the lungs. Most children over 4 can use a small spacer and puffer. Babies and children under 4 may need a face mask. (The videos below and more can be found on the NPS MedicineWise YouTube page.) Metered dose inhalers (puffers)A puffer, or a metered dose inhaler, is the most common type of inhaler. Using it with a spacer will get more medicine into the lungs. Tips for correct use
Video: how to use a puffer
Video: how to use a puffer with a spacer
AutohalersAn Autohaler is an alternative way to take some asthma medicines. The inhaler is activated by breathing in. Tips for correct use
Video: how to use an Autohaler
Other types of inhaler (dry powder inhalers)There are many other types of inhaler. These include the Accuhaler, Turbuhaler, HandiHaler, Ellipta and Genuair. These inhalers all come with instructions. A doctor or nurse should teach you how to use them. Tips for correct use
Video: how to use an Accuhaler
Video: how to use a Turbuhaler
Video: how to use a HandiHaler
Check list for good usage
Where to get helpThe following organisations have a range of resources, including fact sheets and videos to help you take your asthma medicine properly: Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content. Last reviewed: June 2021 These trusted information partners have more on this topic.
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