Using a spacer device with an inhaler
- Remove the cover from the inhaler mouthpiece.
- Hold the inhaler upright and give it a shake.
- Insert it into the end of the spacer.
- Hold the spacer at a 45° angle.
- Place the mask over your child’s mouth or put the mouthpiece in your child’s mouth.
- Press the top of the inhaler to give a dose of medicine.
- Ask your child to breathe in deeply about five or ten times.
- Wait a few seconds before giving another dose.
- When you have finished, remove the inhaler from the spacer.
- Put the cover back over the mouthpiece and keep the inhaler and spacer somewhere handy.
Not using a spacer device with an inhaler
- Remove the cover from the inhaler mouthpiece.
- Hold the inhaler upright and give it a shake.
- Breathe out gently.
- Keeping the inhaler upright, put the mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips around it so there are no leaks.
- Press the top of the inhaler to give a dose of medicine.
- Breathe in steadily through your mouth.
- Hold your breath for about ten seconds.
- Breathe out and wait a few seconds before taking another dose.
- When you have finished, put the cover back over the mouthpiece and keep the inhaler somewhere handy.
Looking after the inhaler
- Keep the inhaler handy at all times but out of direct sunlight.
- Read the instructions and only use the inhaler as instructed.
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
If you have any questions about your child’s liquid medicine, please ask your family doctor (GP) or local community pharmacist.
Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: September 2006
Ref: F060440 © GOSH Trust September 2006
Compiled by the Pharmacy department in collaboration with the Child and Family Information Group
Please read this information in conjunction with any patient information leaflet provided by the manufacturer. However, please note that this information explains about the use of medicines in children and young people so may differ from the manufacturer’s information.
Each person reacts differently to medicines so your child will not necessarily suffer every side effect mentioned. This information does not constitute health or medical advice and will not necessarily reflect treatment at other hospitals. If you have any questions, please ask your doctor. No liability can be taken as a result of using this information.
