Pulmonary
- Critical Care Associates
of East Texas
Jeffrey M.
Shea, M.D., F.C.C.P.
Catherine M. Martinez, M.D.
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Jeffrey M.
Shea, M.D., F.C.C.P. |
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Proper
Use of Inhaled Holding the canister away from mouth (see diagrams at bottom of page) The proper method of using the Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) is very important in order to deliver the optimal amount of medication to the airways. If not done properly, this can result in increased side effects from absorption of the medication, mouth irritation, and suboptimal medication effect. The inhaler should be placed 3 finger-breadths from the mouth and activated while you are starting an inhalation. This will require some practice but is the most effective means for drug delivery. Inhalation should be for 4 - 6 seconds followed by a breath hold for 4-6 seconds, then exhale. If 2 puffs are prescribed, then approximately 1 minute should pass before the next dose to allow the medication to start working. When technically this is not feasible, a spacer may be used.
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