Using an inhaler correctly matters because the medicine needs to reach the lungs in the way the device is designed to deliver it. A pharmacist can often help by watching how you use your inhaler, identifying technique problems and explaining the steps for that specific device.
There is no single inhaler technique that works for every product. Pressurised metered-dose inhalers, dry-powder inhalers, soft-mist inhalers and breath-actuated devices can require different preparation and breathing patterns.
Why inhaler technique matters
Poor technique can mean less medicine reaches the lungs, which may reduce the benefit of treatment. With some inhaled medicines, poor technique can also increase unwanted effects in the mouth or throat.
NHS guidance recommends having inhaler technique checked regularly. If you are unsure how to use your inhaler, or it has not been checked recently, a doctor, nurse or pharmacist can watch you use it.
Different inhalers need different techniques
The most important rule is to use the instructions for your exact device. Some inhalers require a slow, steady breath in; others need a quicker, deeper inhalation. Some need shaking or priming before use, while others do not.
Because of these differences, copying someone else’s technique can be misleading even if the medicines look similar.
What a pharmacist may ask you to demonstrate
A technique check usually starts with the inhaler you actually use. The pharmacist may ask you to show how you prepare it, breathe out before the dose, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, inhale, hold your breath where appropriate and finish the dose.
The aim is to see your normal routine rather than test your memory. Small changes can sometimes make a noticeable difference to how effectively the device is used.
Common technique problems
Common problems can include poor coordination with a pressurised inhaler, breathing in too slowly or too quickly for the device, failing to prepare or prime the inhaler correctly, not sealing the lips around the mouthpiece, stopping the breath too early, or using an empty or nearly empty device.
These are examples only. The correct solution depends on the specific inhaler.
Breathing in at the right speed
The required inhalation speed is device-specific. Some inhalers depend on a quick, forceful breath to draw powder into the lungs, while pressurised inhalers generally need good coordination with a slower inhalation.
A pharmacist can help you practise the breathing pattern for your exact device rather than relying on a generic technique.
Priming, shaking and dose preparation
Some inhalers need shaking, priming, loading a dose, twisting a mechanism or inserting a capsule before use. Others are ready to use with fewer steps. The patient information leaflet for your device should always be followed.
Breath-holding and mouth positioning
Where the device instructions recommend it, holding your breath briefly after inhaling can help the medicine settle in the lungs. A good seal around the mouthpiece is also important so that the dose is not lost.
Cleaning and dose counters
Many inhalers have device-specific cleaning instructions and some include dose counters. Checking the counter helps avoid relying on an inhaler that is empty or nearly empty.
When an inhaler is no longer needed or has expired, see our guidance on safe disposal of unwanted inhalers.
When a spacer may be relevant
Spacers are used with some pressurised metered-dose inhalers and can make it easier to coordinate the inhaler with breathing. They are not used with every inhaler, so do not add or change a spacer without checking that it is suitable for the device and treatment.
When symptoms need clinical review, not just a technique check
Technique is important, but worsening breathing should not automatically be blamed on the inhaler. If you are becoming more breathless, waking at night with symptoms, needing a reliever more often, or the inhaler is not helping as expected, ask for clinical review.
Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, difficulty speaking, blue lips, collapse, confusion or another rapidly worsening breathing problem.
Pharmacist inhaler technique support in Luton
Biscot Pharmacy’s live information confirms medicine-support services, including New Medicine Service support for people starting medicines for asthma and COPD. The website does not currently describe a separate standalone inhaler-technique appointment service, so contact the pharmacy if you want to ask what inhaler support is available for your situation.
For broader medicine support, visit Biscot Pharmacy in Luton or read our guide to pharmacy medicine support in Luton.
If you want to check what support is available before travelling, contact Biscot Pharmacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during an inhaler technique check?
A pharmacist or other trained healthcare professional may ask which inhaler you use, watch you demonstrate your usual technique, identify device-specific problems and then explain or demonstrate the correct steps for that particular inhaler.
Can a pharmacist show me how to use my inhaler?
Yes. NHS guidance advises people to ask a doctor, nurse or pharmacist to watch their inhaler technique if they are unsure or if it has not been checked recently.
Why does inhaler technique matter?
Correct technique helps the medicine reach the lungs effectively. Poor technique can reduce treatment benefit and, with some inhaled medicines, can increase the risk of side effects.
How do I know if I am using my inhaler correctly?
The safest way is to have someone trained in your specific device watch you use it. Different inhalers have different preparation and breathing steps, so general written instructions are not enough for every device.
Should inhaler technique be checked regularly?
Yes. NHS information advises regular technique checks, and NICE recommends observing technique at asthma reviews, consultations, when control worsens, when the device changes and when a person asks for help.
Important
This article provides general information and does not replace the instructions for your specific inhaler or an asthma/COPD review. Do not change inhalers, doses or prescribed treatment without advice from the healthcare professional responsible for your care.
the prescription app
