Using a Diskus inhaler for asthma

Different Diskus products can contain different medicines, so the device name alone does not tell you whether it is a daily controller, a reliever, or part of another treatment plan. Follow the label and your prescription.

Preparing the lever makes a measured powder dose available. Your own deep, forceful breath through the mouthpiece draws that powder into the airways; the device does not release a spray when pressed. Because it is breath operated, its technique differs from a pressurised inhaler.

The dose counter helps show how much medicine remains. It does not confirm that the powder reached your lungs. Dampness, breathing into the device, a weak inhalation or blocking the mouthpiece can reduce effective delivery.

Open and prepare the device as demonstrated. Breathe out away from it, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, inhale deeply and forcefully, then hold your breath for as long as is comfortable before breathing out slowly. Close the device after use and keep it dry.

Do not wash the mouthpiece or shake the device. If the medicine contains an inhaled corticosteroid, rinse your mouth and spit afterward as instructed. Ask a clinician or pharmacist to observe your technique, especially if symptoms persist or the dose counter changes without the expected effect.

Seek emergency help if you are severely short of breath, cannot speak in full sentences, develop blue or grey lips, become confused or very drowsy, or fail to improve after using the emergency medicine specified in your asthma action plan. Do not take repeated extra Diskus doses unless your plan specifically directs this.

Ask for the medicine name and purpose, when to take it, what to do after a missed dose, and how to recognise an empty or damaged device. Confirm which inhaler provides rapid relief and whether your breathing is strong enough to use a dry-powder device effectively.