Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Check the expiration date on your inhaler. Twist the top of your inhaler. Remove the top from your inhaler. Make sure to hold your inhaler straight. Don't shake it up and down. Stand up straight or sit up straight. Turn your head away from your inhaler and take one breath in. Keeping your head turned away, let out one breath. Turn your head toward your inhaler and place it between your lips. Take one breath in, hold your breath for 10 seconds. Remove the inhaler from your mouth and turn your head away from it. Let out one breath. Place the top back on the inhaler and twist it closed. If your inhaler used a steroid, rinse your mouth with a sip of water and spit it out.
Author: Zapalac, Mary Ann
Online Medical Reviewer: Pedersen, Deborah, MD
Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2021
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Need Help? We're Here for You
Our Member Services team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.
1-800-510-9132
Call NC Quitline
Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:
1-800-784-8669
Schedule Transportation
Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.
1-800-510-9132
Provider Directory
Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist?
Provider DirectoryRelated Articles
Step-by-Step: Using a Dry-Powder Diskus Inhaler
This video shows how to use a dry-powder diskus inhaler.
Step-by-Step: Priming Your Inhaler
This video shows how to prime your inhaler.
Asthma Management: The Pollen Allergen
Watch this clip to learn how you can help manage your asthma when you are outdoors and when the pollen count is high.
Asthma Management: Smoke, Pollutants and Chemical Triggers
Watch these tips for limiting your exposure to smoke, pollutants and chemical triggers.
