Learn to Breathe Better · Lesson 1
How to Use an MDI Inhaler with Spacer Correctly
80-second 3D animation with English & Hinglish voiceover — coming soon. Follow the written steps below meanwhile.
Who is this for? People prescribed a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (MDI / “puffer”), with or without a spacer, for asthma or COPD.
Step by step
- 1
Remove the cap, check the mouthpiece, and shake the inhaler if your device requires it. Prime the inhaler if its instructions say so (for example, when new or not used for a while).
- 2
Connect the inhaler securely to the spacer.
- 3
Sit upright and breathe out gently, away from the spacer.
- 4
Place the spacer mouthpiece between your lips and make a good seal.
- 5
Press the inhaler once, then immediately breathe in slowly and deeply.
- 6
Hold your breath for up to ten seconds if comfortable, then breathe out normally.
- 7
If another puff is prescribed, repeat the steps separately — never spray several puffs into the spacer at once.
- 8
If your inhaler contains a corticosteroid, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out afterwards.
—
ready
Practise with the breathing coach
MDI with Spacer
Press Start and follow the circle
- Breathe out gently · 3s
- Press once & breathe in slowly · 4s
- Hold · 10s
- Breathe out normally · 4s
Stop and rest if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable. Practise without your device first, then with it as prescribed.
Common mistakes
Spraying two or more puffs into the spacer together
One puff, one slow breath — then repeat if prescribed
Breathing in so fast that the spacer whistles
Breathe in slowly and steadily
A loose seal around the mouthpiece
Close your lips firmly around the mouthpiece
Good to know
Some valved spacers can also be used with several normal (tidal) breaths after each puff — use the method your doctor or the device instructions recommend.
Ask for an inhaler technique check at your clinic visits.
Educational information only. Follow the technique prescribed by your healthcare professional.