Asthma Medication Delivery Systems

A Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) and Assortment of Holding Chambers

Generally, inhalers work better when used together with holding chambers. If you have trouble coordinating the release of your asthma medication from your MDI with your breathing, use a chamber device.

When used properly, MDI’s with holding chambers have been shown to work as effectively as nebulizers.

There are five common asthma medication delivery systems:

1. Metered-dose Inhalers (MDI’s)
2. MDI’s with Holding Chamber (larger volume spacers with one-way valves)
3. Nebulizers
4. Dry Powder Inhalers (DPI)
5. Autohalers (Breath-activated MDI’s)

Keep the following in mind concerning your MDI’s:

• Nebulizers are an effective option for you if you have problems using MDI’s.
• Try to always use a holding chamber when taking inhaled steroids (except DPI’s).
• Keep extra inhalers on hand (separate inhalers for work, home, school, child care).
• Use spacers every time you need to improve your inhaled medication delivery.
• See your health care provider regularly, as medicine doses or asthma severity may, and normally do, change over time.
• Remember to take inhaled medications before sports or exercise, if you need them.
• Always Use a peak flow meter to regularly monitor your asthma.

Where to Buy Metered Holding Chambers:

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3. Long-term Controller Asthma Medications
4. Asthma Help – When You Need to Talk with Your Doctor