metered dose inhaler, spacer

How should I take or use Metered dose inhalers/Evohalers with Spacer?

The following information is relevant to, but not limited to:

• Salbutamol 100 microgram inhaler
• Ipratropium 20 microgram inhaler
• Fluticasone Propionate 50 microgram evohaler
• Fluticasone Propionate 125 microgram evohaler
• Seretide® 25/50 microgram evohaler (Containing salmeterol 25 micrograms/fluticasone 50 micrograms)
• Seretide® 25/50 microgram evohaler (Containing salmeterol 25 micrograms/fluticasone 125 micrograms)
• Seretide® 25/50 microgram evohaler (Containing salmeterol 25 micrograms/fluticasone 250 micrograms
• Beclomethasone 250mcg inhaler
• Beclomethasone 50mcg inhaler

Use metered-dose inhalers with a spacer, whenever possible, for better drug delivery.

How should I store Metered dose inhalers/Evohalers with Spacer?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
• Store at room temperature

What else should I know about Metered dose inhalers/Evohalers with Spacer?

Cleaning instruction for spacer

• The spacer should be cleaned at least once a month but can be washed more often if required.
• Where required follow the package instructions with respect to dismantling and cleaning as this may differ from one spacer device to another.
• Dismantle the spacer, if necessary. Soak the spacer completely in a container of mild soapy water made by adding two drops of mild liquid detergent.
• Do not use a scrub to clean the spacer.
• Do not rinse the spacer again after removing it from the soapy water, as the detergent minimizes static charge.
• Shake out the excess water and allow to air dry.  Do not use tissue paper or cloth to rub dry after washing.
• When completely dry, reassemble spacer if necessary.
• Unless otherwise directed by your healthcare professional, it is recommended to replace the spacer every year.

Special Instructions:

• Before using the inhaler for the first time or if the inhaler has not been used for several days, release 2 puffs into the air to prime it and make sure it works.
• Before using the spacer for the first time or if it is only used occasionally, prime the spacer by cleaning it as above or if it needs to be used immediately, discharge 10 puffs of the reliever medication into the chamber to help reduce the static build-up.
• Rinse or gargle with water after using the controller inhaler to prevent oral thrush.
• If both controller and reliever are required to be used at the same time, always use the reliever (salbutamol) first.
• You should keep a record of the number of doses you have used up to ensure that you have sufficient amount of this medication before your next doctor's appointment. For Seretide®, there is a dose counter on the inhaler.