Checklist
- Check dose counter.
- Hold upright with red mouthpiece cover at the bottom. Do not shake the inhaler.
- Open cover downwards until it clicks.
- Breathe out gently (away from inhaler).
- Put mouthpiece between teeth (without biting) and close lips to form good seal. (Do not cover air vents).
- Breathe in strongly and deeply.
- Remove inhaler from mouth (without breathing out).
- Hold breath for 5 seconds or as long as comfortable.
- Breathe out gently (away from the inhaler).
- Close mouthpiece cover.
- If more than one dose is needed, repeat all steps starting from step 2.
Notes
- It's important to inhale forcefully and deeply ensure the medicine reaches the airways.
- The mouthpiece should not be opened and closed unless a dose is being taken, because each time the mouthpiece is closed, the dose indicator counts down, so it is harder to know when the inhaler is empty.
- The inhaler looks similar to a pressurised metered-dose inhaler – however it is actually different type and the important steps are different.
- The mouthpiece cover will still 'click' even when the Spiromax is empty.
Getting the most out of your inhaler
Ask your doctor, pharmacist or asthma and 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
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 TEVA. 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.
