How to use Autohaler

Using your inhaler (puffer) properly is important when you have asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

This short video shows you how to use an Autohaler.

Medication

An Autohaler is used with a number of different medications. These include:

• Airomir (salbutamol)
• Qvar (beclomethasone)

Checklist of steps

1. Remove cap
2. Hold inhaler upright and shake well
3. Push lever up
4. Breathe out gently (away from inhaler)
5. Put mouthpiece between teeth (without biting) and close lips to form good seal
6. Breathe in slowly and deeply. Keep breathing in after click is heard
7. Hold breath for about 5 seconds or as long as comfortable
8. While holding breath, remove inhaler from mouth
9. Breathe out gently (away from inhaler)
10. Push lever down
11. If more than one dose is needed, repeat all steps starting from step 2
12. Replace cap

Your inhaler will come with instructions in the package. Always check the package insert for any specific instructions.

Potential errors

• Holding the inhaler in the wrong position
• Stopping breathing in when the click is heard
• Moisture getting inside from breathing into the inhaler or leaving the cap off
• Taking several puffs without shaking the inhaler in between

Tips

• Keep your chin up and the inhaler upright (not aimed at the roof of your mouth or tongue)
• Always lift the lever before using the inhaler
• Always put the cover back on the inhaler after use
• If you are using this inhaler for a corticosteroid preventer medication, rinse your mouth with water and spit after inhaling the last dose to reduce the risk of side-effects

Getting the most out of your inhaler

Ask your doctor, pharmacist or asthma & respiratory educator to:

• Explain how your inhaler should be used
• Check you are using your inhaler properly
• Tell you where to find the expiry date on your inhaler
• Show you how to check if your inhaler is empty or nearly empty
• Discuss any unwanted effects from your medication
• Explain how to clean your inhaler.

Different brands of inhalers sometimes have slightly different instructions to each other for similar steps. The checklists in our How-To Video library have been simplified and standardised where possible to reduce confusion.

Your inhaler will come with instructions in the package. Always check the package insert for any specific instructions.

Other inhaler types

See our complete How-to video library for other inhaler types and how to use them.

Acknowledgement

Thanks to Ms Judi Wicking, asthma and respiratory educator, and the patient who participated in this film clip.

Development of this How-to video was supported by the Australian Government Department of Veterans' Affairs as part of the Prevent Puffer Problems campaign. The National Asthma Council Australia retained editorial control.

Disclaimer

Although all care has been taken, this video is a general guide only, which is not a substitute for assessment of appropriate courses of treatment on a case-by-case basis. The National Asthma Council Australia expressly disclaims all responsibility (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or personal injury resulting from reliance on the information contained herein.