Learn to Breathe Better · Lesson 2
How to Use a Dry Powder Inhaler Correctly
80-second 3D animation with English & Hinglish voiceover — coming soon. Follow the written steps below meanwhile.
Who is this for? People prescribed a dry powder inhaler (DPI) such as a capsule, disc or multi-dose powder device.
Step by step
- 1
Open the inhaler and load one dose exactly as instructed for your particular device.
- 2
Sit or stand upright.
- 3
Breathe out comfortably — but never breathe out into the inhaler.
- 4
Place the mouthpiece between your lips and make a firm seal.
- 5
Take a quick, forceful and deep breath in through your mouth, right from the start.
- 6
Hold your breath for five to ten seconds if comfortable.
- 7
Remove the inhaler and breathe out away from the device.
- 8
Close the device. If it contains a corticosteroid, rinse your mouth and spit.
—
ready
Practise with the breathing coach
DPI Inhaler
Press Start and follow the circle
- Breathe out · 3s
- Quick, deep breath in · 2s
- Hold · 8s
- Breathe out · 4s
Stop and rest if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable. Practise without your device first, then with it as prescribed.
Common mistakes
Breathing out into the inhaler
Always breathe out away from the device
A weak, slow breath in
A quick, strong and deep breath from the start
Loading the dose incorrectly
Follow the loading steps for your exact device
Keeping the device in a damp place
Keep your DPI dry and closed
Good to know
DPI devices differ in how a dose is loaded. The lesson shows the inhalation steps common to most devices.
Unlike an MDI with spacer, a DPI generally needs a strong, deep breath in.
Dose-loading steps differ between devices — always follow your device's instructions.
Some people cannot breathe in strongly enough for a DPI. If you find it difficult, ask your doctor whether another device suits you better.
Educational information only. Follow the technique prescribed by your healthcare professional.