Instructions for Using an MDI With a Holding Chamber
If you have difficulty using the MDI,
your doctor may prescribe a holding
chamber with a mouthpiece or a
mask. It includes a tube that attaches
to your MDI. This may help you more
easily use the MDI. Before using your
MDI with a holding chamber:
• Read the specific instructions that
came with it.
• Follow the priming directions
carefully.
• Follow the cleaning directions
carefully.
• Wash the holding chamber
or spacer according to the
instructions.
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5
SLOW, DEEP BREATH
SHAKE WELL
STEP 1: Take the cap off your MDI.
Check for and remove any dust, lint,
or other objects. Shake the MDI well, if
patient instructions recommend it.
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ATTACH MDI
STEP 5: Take a SLOW, DEEP breath
through your mouth. Breathe in as much
air as you can. Try to completely fill up
your lungs. If you inhale too fast, some
holding chambers will give a whistling
sound. It means you are not doing the
procedure correctly.
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STEP 2: Attach the MDI to the holding
chamber.
HOLD BREATH
STEP 6: Remove the mouthpiece from
your mouth. Hold your breath for 10
seconds. If you cannot hold your breath
for 10 seconds, hold your breath as long
as you can.
3
EXHALE FULLY
STEP 3: Sit up straight, or stand.
Exhale fully, emptying your lungs as
much as possible.
4
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WAIT 1 MINUTE, SHAKE
PRESS DOWN
STEP 4: Put the mouthpiece of the
holding chamber in your mouth. Close
your lips around the mouthpiece and
make a tight seal. Press down on the
MDI to put one dose of medicine in the
chamber. NEVER load more than one
dose into the chamber.
STEP 7: If you need another dose
of medicine, wait 1 minute. After 1
minute, shake the inhaler again if patient
instructions recommend it. Repeat steps
3 through 6.
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RINSE IF CORTICOSTEROID
STEP 8: Remove the MDI from the
chamber. Recap both devices. If your
medicine is an inhaled corticosteroid,
rinse your mouth with water after your
last puff of medicine. Spit out the water
– DO NOT SWALLOW IT.
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