Metered-Dose Inhaler with OptiHaler"
Explanation | Administering medication | Refills
What is a metered-dose inhaler?
A metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is a piece of equipment that enables your child to breathe or inhale a fixed dose of his/her medication.
When your child uses a metered-dose inhaler, the medication works quickly, and it goes directly to his/her lungs. A spacer is always used with an MDI to maximize the amount of medication inhaled.
How to use a Metered-Dose Inhaler with OptiHaler":
- To use this type of spacer, your child must be able to inhale through the mouth at the right time. Usually this is someone over 6 years of age who is able to follow instructions with demonstration. OptiHaler" is often preferred by teenagers because it is smaller than the other spacers, and the canister can be stored inside the spacer.
- Check the expiration date on the device before using it. Discard it if it has expired and get a new prescription.
- Remove the mouthpiece cover from the OptiHaler" device.
- Remove the plastic sleeve from the MDI and insert the canister of medicine into the OptiHaler".
- Shake the canister.
- Make sure the end cap on the OptiHaler" is tightly closed.
- Have your child breathe out as much air as he/she can.
- Have your child place the spacer mouthpiece into his/her mouth, gripping it gently with his/her lips and teeth.
- Press down on the canister to release the medication into the spacer.
- Have your child breathe in slowly and deeply through his/her mouth.
- Have your child hold his/her breath and count to 10.
- Have your child take the mouthpiece out of his/her mouth and gently breathe out through pursed lips (similar to blowing out a candle).
- Have your child rest and wait 1 minute. Repeat according to the doctor's directions.
- Replace the blue mouthpiece cover and canister holder cap.
- Slide the end of the OptiHaler" off, and store the canister inside.
How often do I need to get a refill?
Some metered-dose inhalers will still appear to be working even after the medication is gone, which can be dangerous.
- If your child uses his/her inhaler only as needed, you can determine the amount of medication inside by removing the canister from the plastic sleeve and shaking it gently with your index finger on the flat end. Obtain a refill when a small amount is remaining.
- If your child uses his/her inhaler at least once a day, you will need to get a refill from the pharmacy about once a month.
Patient Education Program II 2081 12/98
Revised 6/99, 10/02, 7/03, 7/05, 5/07
