Using an Inhaler Without a Spacer

Your doctor may prescribe medication that you breathe in using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). An inhaler is a pressurized sprayer that delivers a measured amount of medication. Inhalers work best with spacers. But if you don’t have your spacer with you, follow the steps below.

Step 1:

• Shake the inhaler and remove the cap.

• Breathe out fully.

Step 2:

• Put the tip of the inhaler mouthpiece in your mouth. Close your lips around it. (If your health care provider tells you to use the "open-mouth" method, hold the inhaler 1-2 inches from your mouth.)

Step 3:

• Begin to breathe in slowly and deeply as you press down on the inhaler to release the medication.

• Inhale fully.

Step 4:

• Hold your breath for a count of 10.

• Then breathe out slowly through your mouth.

• Repeat these steps for the number of puffs your doctor tells you to take.