Using a metered-dose inhaler with a mask and spacer

Shake the inhaler and remove the cap: Step 1

Removing cap from mouthpiece of inhaler.

slide 1 of 5

slide 1 of 5, Shake the inhaler and remove the cap: Step 1,

Shake the inhaler, and remove the inhaler cap. Check the inhaler instructions to see if you need to prime your inhaler before you use it. If it needs priming, follow the instructions on how to do so.

Hold the inhaler upright and insert it into the spacer: Step 2

Inserting inhaler into end of mask spacer.

slide 2 of 5

slide 2 of 5, Hold the inhaler upright and insert it into the spacer: Step 2,

Hold the inhaler upright with the mouthpiece at the bottom, and insert the inhaler into the end of the mask spacer.

Place the mask spacer: Step 3

Adult placing mask of spacer over child's mouth and nose.

slide 3 of 5

slide 3 of 5, Place the mask spacer: Step 3,

Place the mask spacer securely over your child's mouth and nose, being sure to get a good seal. The mask must fit snugly, with no gaps between the mask and the skin.

Press down on the inhaler: Step 4

Adult holding mask spacer over child's nose and mouth, while pressing down on inhaler to release medicine into spacer.

slide 4 of 5

slide 4 of 5, Press down on the inhaler: Step 4,

With the mask spacer in place, press down on the inhaler to spray one puff of medicine into the spacer.

Have your child breathe in the medicine: Step 5

Adult holding mask spacer over child's nose and mouth, while child breathes in medicine from spacer.

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slide 5 of 5, Have your child breathe in the medicine: Step 5,

Keep the mask spacer in place and have your child breathe in and out normally for about 20 seconds. This is how long it takes to breathe in all the medicine.

If your child needs another puff of medicine, wait 30 to 60 seconds and repeat steps 4 and 5.

Current as of: July 6, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
John Pope MD - Pediatrics
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine