spacer for metered-dose inhaler
a spacer is a chamber that can be attached to a metered-dose inhaler (mdi). the spacer may have a one-way valve that holds the medicine in the chamber before it is inhaled. this way you can inhale the medicine in one or many breaths, depending on your ability. a spacer:
- may help prevent getting a yeast infection in your mouth. and using one can prevent your voice from sounding hoarse.
- delivers more medicine straight to your airways. this is true even if you have trouble using your inhaler.
- reduces the amount of medicine you swallow. this means you are less likely to have side effects.
it is especially important to use a spacer with an inhaler that contains corticosteroids. spacers also may be used by children who have trouble using a metered-dose inhaler correctly. don't use a dry powder inhaler (dpi) with a spacer.
current as of: august 6, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
