How to use a pMDI

About the Instructional Video

This video provides a clear, step-by-step guide to help you use your pMDI inhaler correctly and confidently. By watching this tutorial, you will learn:

• The four main parts of the inhaler: the canister, mouthpiece, mouthpiece cap, and the dose counter.
• The correct procedure for preparing and using the inhaler.
• How to "prime" the inhaler before its first use or when it hasn't been used for a while.
• The essential steps of shaking the inhaler, breathing out completely, and coordinating pressing the canister while inhaling slowly and deeply.
• The importance of holding your breath after inhalation to ensure the medication is properly absorbed.
• How to read the integrated dose counter to track your remaining doses.

How to Use a pMDI: Step-by-Step Guide

Following these steps will help you get the full benefit from your medication.

Preparation

• Sit or Stand Upright: Ensure you are in a comfortable upright position.
• Open and Shake: Remove the mouthpiece cap and shake the inhaler vigorously for a few seconds. This mixes the medicine properly.

Taking Your Dose

• Breathe Out: Breathe out gently and completely, turning your head away from the inhaler.
• Position the Inhaler: Place the mouthpiece in your mouth, between your teeth, and close your lips tightly around it to form a good seal. Do not bite the mouthpiece.
• Press and Inhale: Start to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth. As you begin to inhale, press down firmly on the top of the canister once to release a puff of medicine. Continue to breathe in steadily and deeply.
• Hold Your Breath: Remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for at least 10 seconds, or for as long as is comfortable. This allows the medicine time to settle in your lungs.
• Breathe Out: Exhale slowly and normally.

Finishing Up:

• Replace the Cap: After use, always replace the mouthpiece cap to keep it clean.
• Rinse Your Mouth: It is very important to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after taking your dose. Do not swallow the water.

Points to remember

• Priming the Inhaler: Before using your inhaler for the first time, or if it has not been used for more than a week, you must prime it. To do this, remove the cap, shake the inhaler, and release two puffs into the air, away from your face.
• Dose Counter: The pMDI comes with a dose counter that shows how many doses are remaining. When the last 40 doses are left, the numbers will change from green to red to alert you that you need a new inhaler soon. When the counter reaches '0', it is time to discard the inhaler.
• Cleaning: To keep your inhaler clean, it is recommended to wipe the mouthpiece with a dry cloth or tissue at least once a week. Do not use water to clean your inhaler.
• Coordination: Using a pMDI requires good coordination between pressing the canister and inhaling. If you find this difficult, speak to your doctor about using a spacer device, like the Zerostat VT, which can make it easier to take your medicine correctly.