Devices for Inhaled Medications (Asthma Inhalers, COPD Inhalers)
This information was reviewed and approved by Ann Mullen, RN, CNS, AE-C, CDE, TTS (3/29/2018).
Inhaled medicines, or medicines that you breathe directly into the lungs, are an important part of treatment for chronic lung disease. A variety of medicines are available in an inhaled form. When inhaled, the medicine quickly reaches the airways and less is absorbed into the bloodstream. There are a number of devices that deliver medicine directly to the airways. Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), dry powder inhalers, nebulizers and soft mist inhalers are currently available with different medicines. A combination of inhaled medications can be used for a number of chronic lung diseases, including asthma and COPD.
It is important to routinely clean the inhaled devices to keep them working properly. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer for each device.
See the inhaler poster for current devices and medications.
Información sobre Inhaladores.
Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDI)
The metered-dose-inhaler is important for the treatment of chronic lung disease, including asthma and COPD. A variety of medicines are available in a metered-dose-inhaler. The metered dose inhaler (MDI) consists of a pressurized canister of medicine in a plastic case with a mouthpiece. A holding chamber consists of a plastic tube with a mouthpiece, a valve to control mist delivery and a soft sealed end to hold the MDI. The holding chamber assists delivery of medicine to the lungs. Learn more.
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Metered-Dose Inhaler
Dry Powder Inhalers
Dry powder inhalers are important for the treatment of chronic lung disease, including asthma and COPD. A variety of medications are available in dry powder inhalers. The dry powder inhalers consist of a plastic device used to inhale powdered medication. The dry powder inhalers are breath activated. This means when you inhale, the device automatically releases the medication. Learn more.
Nebulizers
Nebulizers are important for the treatment of chronic lung disease, including asthma and COPD. A variety of medications are available in a nebulized form. A nebulizer delivery system consists of a nebulizer (small plastic bowl with a screw-top lid) and a source for compressed air. The air flow to the nebulizer changes the medication solution to a mist that is inhaled.
Instructions for Nebulizer Treatments:
- Should nebulized asthma medications be mixed?
- Using A Pari LC® Sprint Reusable Nebulizer
- Using a Pari LC Jet+TM Nebulizer
Soft Mist Inhaler
Soft mist inhalers are important for the treatment of chronic lung disease, including asthma and COPD. A variety of medications are available as a soft mist inhaler. A soft mist inhaler consists of a plastic device containing medication. The medication is released as a slow-moving soft mist. Learn how to use a Respimatr.