What Is Inhaler Technique?

Inhaler technique is the correct way to use an asthma or COPD inhaler to make sure the medicine gets into your lungs where it’s needed. Using an inhaler the right way helps control symptoms and prevents flare-ups. Poor technique can mean you don’t get the full dose, which may lead to poorly managed breathing problems [1].

Why is inhaler technique important?

If your inhaler technique is incorrect, less medicine reaches your lungs and more may stay in your mouth or throat. This means your symptoms may not improve, and you may be more likely to need emergency care. Good technique helps your medication work effectively and keeps your condition under control [2][3].

Are there different types of inhalers?

Yes. There are several types of inhalers, and each needs to be used in a slightly different way:

Pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) – also called aerosol inhalers, often used with a spacer
Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) – need a strong, fast breath in to activate the medicine
Soft mist inhalers – release a slow mist when activated

What is the correct inhaler technique for a pMDI?

Follow these basic steps (always check your inhaler's leaflet or ask your nurse or pharmacist):

Shake the inhaler well before use

Breathe out gently and completely

Place the mouthpiece between your lips and close your lips around it

Start breathing in slowly through your mouth

Press down on the canister as you breathe in

Continue to breathe in deeply and slowly

Hold your breath for 5–10 seconds, then breathe out gently

How do you use a spacer with an inhaler?

A spacer is a plastic tube that attaches to your inhaler. It helps the medicine reach your lungs more effectively, especially for children or anyone who struggles with coordination. To use a spacer:

Shake the inhaler and insert it into the spacer

Breathe out, then place your mouth on the spacer mouthpiece

Press the inhaler once and breathe in slowly and deeply

Hold your breath, then breathe out through the spacer

Repeat if more than one puff is prescribed

How can you check your inhaler technique?

It’s a good idea to have your technique checked regularly by a GP, asthma nurse, or pharmacist. They can watch how you use your inhaler and give tips to improve it. You can also:

Ask for a demonstration at your asthma review
Use online videos from trusted sources like Asthma + Lung UK [4]
Practise in front of a mirror

What are common mistakes with inhaler use?

Some of the most common errors include:

Not shaking the inhaler before use (if needed)
Breathing in too quickly or too slowly
Not sealing your lips properly around the mouthpiece
Failing to hold your breath after inhaling the medicine
Using an empty or expired inhaler

Key Takeaways

Inhaler technique means using your inhaler properly so the medicine reaches your lungs.
There are different inhalers, and each has its own steps to follow.
Using a spacer can make it easier and more effective, especially for children.
Poor technique can lead to poor symptom control and more asthma attacks.
Always ask a healthcare professional to check your technique regularly.

Reminder: Even if you’ve used an inhaler for years, your technique might need a refresh. Ask your nurse, pharmacist, or GP to check it and help you get the most from your treatment.

Sources

[1] Anna Vanoverschelde, Paulien van der Wel, Barbara Putman, Lies Lahousse - Determinants of poor inhaler technique and poor therapy adherence in obstructive lung diseases: a cross-sectional study in community pharmacies: BMJ Open Respiratory Research 2021;8:e000823.

[2] Jahedi L, Downie SR, Saini B, Chan HK, Bosnic-Anticevich S. Inhaler Technique in Asthma: How Does It Relate to Patients' Preferences and Attitudes Toward Their Inhalers? J Aerosol Med Pulm Drug Deliv. 2017 Feb;30(1):42-52. doi: 10.1089/jamp.2016.1287. Epub 2016 Sep 27. PMID: 27676193; PMCID: PMC5278803.

[3] Evie Rothwell, Joseph McElvaney, Alice Fitzpatrick, Maria van Hove, Anya Gopfert, Lewis Standing, Sarah Catherine Walpole, Evaluating inhaler technique, patient preferences and opportunities for improvement in hospitals in the UK, Future Healthcare Journal, Volume 11, Issue 2, 2024, 100141, ISSN 2514-6645

[4] How to use your inhaler - Asthma & Lung UK