Using an InspirEase® Spacer for Your Inhaled Medication

Many medications are available as inhaled treatments. Inhaled methods deliver medication directly to the airway, which is helpful for lung diseases. The patient and healthcare provider can choose from a variety of delivery systems for inhaling medication.

The metered dose inhaler (MDI) consists of a pressurized canister of medication in a plastic case with a mouthpiece. The InspirEase® spacer consists of a collapsible plastic bag and a mouthpiece. A spacer assists delivery of medication to the small airways. This increases the medication's effectiveness. Its portable size, efficiency and convenience make the MDI a desirable method for inhalation treatment.

The following steps outline the best method to use the InspirEase®:

How To Assemble the InspirEase®:
Taking an Inhaled Treatment:
Cleaning and Care For the InspirEase®

How To Assemble the InspirEase®:

1. Attach the InspirEase® mouthpiece to the collapsible plastic bag by matching the tabs. Push in and twist to lock.
   
2. Remove the inhaler from the manufacturer's plastic case.
3. Shake the inhaler. This mixes the medication properly.
4. Fit the inhaler into the InspirEase® mouthpiece.
   
5. Pull the bag open to its full size.
   

Taking an Inhaled Treatment:

1. Gently breathe out.
2. Put the mouthpiece in your mouth between your teeth and close your lips around it.
3. Press the inhaler once. The medication will be delivered into the bag.
4. Breathe in slowly and deeply over 3-5 seconds. If you breathe in too fast, the InspirEase® will whistle.
   
5. Hold your breath for up to ten seconds. This allows the medication time to deposit in the airways.
6. Resume normal breathing.

Repeat steps 1-6 when more than one puff is prescribed.

Cleaning and Care For the InspirEase®

1. Disconnect and clean the InspirEase® mouthpiece thoroughly with warm, running water. The InspirEase® is not dishwasher safe.
2. Shake off excess water.
3. Air dry on a clean towel and wait until it is dry before storing. The InspirEase® should not be stored near heat.
4. Do not clean the collapsible plastic bag. It should be replaced every 4 weeks or as needed.
5. The mouthpiece should be replaced every six months or when it is no longer working correctly.

Remember, a prescription is required to get an InspirEase® and replacement bags.

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This information has been approved by Ann Mullen, R.N.,M.S., AE-C  and David Tinkelman, M.D. (February 2006).