Using a spacer with an asthma inhaler

A spacer is a chamber fitted between the inhaler and your mouth. It reduces the need to press the canister and inhale at exactly the same moment. A mask may be attached for a young child or anyone unable to seal their lips around the mouthpiece.

Spacers are intended for compatible pressurised metered-dose inhalers, not every inhaler design. Check that the chamber fits your device and follow the instructions supplied with both products.

Sit or stand upright, remove the cap, check the mouthpiece, and shake the inhaler. Fit it into the spacer, breathe out away from the device, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, then press one dose. Breathe in slowly and deeply and hold your breath if comfortable. If you cannot manage one deep breath, use calm tidal breaths as your clinician has demonstrated.

Give separate puffs one at a time rather than spraying several doses into the chamber together. Clean the spacer according to its manufacturer instructions and let it air-dry; wiping some plastic chambers can increase static and reduce medicine delivery. Have your technique checked during routine asthma visits.

Follow your asthma action plan if wheezing, cough, or chest tightness worsens. Seek urgent medical help if the prescribed reliever is not helping, breathing is rapidly getting harder, you cannot speak comfortably in full sentences, your lips look blue or grey, you become drowsy or confused, or the skin between the ribs pulls inward. Do not delay emergency care while repeatedly troubleshooting a spacer.

Ask whether your inhaler is compatible with your spacer, whether a mask or mouthpiece suits you, and how often your specific chamber should be cleaned or replaced. Bring both devices to the appointment so a clinician or pharmacist can watch your technique and correct any missed steps.