Inhaler Techniques Questions and Answers

The two main types of inhalers are metered-dose inhalers, or an MDI, and dry powder inhalers, or a DPI. Metered-dose inhalers are also known as hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) inhalers. Moreover, both types of inhalers can provide either long-acting or short-acting relief from asthma symptoms. As such, both the MDI and DPI also provide two different types of functions.

With that in mind, metered-dose inhalers and dry powder inhalers differ in how they deliver medicine to the patient’s lungs. As such, a metered-dose inhaler uses a chemical propellant to thrust a puff of medicine into the patient’s lungs. MDI inhalers are referred to as “metered dose” because the puff of medicine delivered into the patient’s lungs is measured and consistent. In contrast, a dry powder inhaler relies on the patient’s inward breath, or inhale, to activate and deliver the medicine.

With regard to the two different types of functions that metered-dose inhalers or dry powder inhalers provide, short-acting inhalers are used to counteract sudden asthma symptoms or episodes, while long-acting inhalers are used on an ongoing basis to prevent asthma attacks or episodes.

Excellent technique is critical to good asthma control. For more information on how to use an inhaler correctly, we welcome you to consult HOW TO VIDEOS on this website for step-by-step instructions.

You can also book an appointment with one of our allergist-immunologists or nurse practitioners at Allergy & Asthma Center in Atlanta, Conyers, or Lawrenceville, GA, for detailed guidance and step-by-step instruction on how to use an inhaler properly. Our asthma specialists are trained in pediatrics. As such, we can proudly see asthma patients of all ages, from young children to older adults.

Most asthma patients are not using their inhalers and/or spacers correctly, and, therefore, are not getting the maximum benefit from these devices. All physicians caring for asthma patients will attest to the fact that even after demonstrating the proper technique for using the inhaler or spacer, “show and tell” on subsequent office visits proves that excellent technique is rarely observed, especially in children.

A recent study revealed that only 50% of those using an inhaler alone had good technique, and only 29% of those using an inhaler with a spacer were using it adequately. For both groups and devices, breathing out before inhalation and breath-holding were problematic. This study reinforces the need to demonstrate and observe the correct use of inhalation devices at each clinic visit.

If you would like more information about proper inhaler techniques for managing and treating asthma or to schedule an appointment with one of our asthma specialists at The Allergy & Asthma Center, we would be pleased to hear from you. We welcome you to give us a call or schedule an appointment with us right here on our website! We serve patients from Lawrenceville GA, Atlanta GA, Conyers GA, Suwanee GA, Duluth GA, Grayson GA, Decatur GA, Brookhaven GA, Lithonia GA and Covington GA.