Caring for the Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI) and Spacer

How to care for your child’s metered-dose inhaler

• Make sure the cap is on the MDI when your child is not using it.
• Make sure the hole where the medicine comes out is not plugged. Use a dry cloth or tissue to wipe off any powder around the hole or in it.
• Store the MDI at room temperature. Do not let it get cold or hot. If it gets cold, warm it with your hands only.
• Always check the expiry date of the MDI before use.
• Write on the metal canister the date when the MDI is first used.

Your child’s MDI is empty when:

• It feels very light.
• There is almost no sound from the canister when you shake it.

Note: You can keep count of the number of puffs your child takes regularly and compare this number to the total number of doses on the label. Some MDIs have dose counters that let you know how many doses are left in the canister.

How to care for your child’s spacer

Washing your child’s spacer is very simple. Try to do it before using it for the first time, and then every week after that.

Take the MDI adapter (the rubber back piece that lets the MDI fit in) off the spacer. Do not take off the mask or mouthpiece.

Soak the adapter and the spacer in lukewarm water with mild dish detergent. Gently shake both parts so soapy water can get into all the parts. Rinse both parts in clean water.

Shake off excess water. Do not use a towel. Stand the spacer up in an upright position and let it air dry. Put the adapter back onto the spacer when both parts are completely dry. Do not wash your child’s spacer in a dishwasher.

If you think there might be a problem with your child’s spacer, or if you have been using it for 1 year, have someone check it. A doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist who teaches you about asthma can tell you if the spacer is working properly.