Merck Manual

Please confirm that you are not located inside the Russian Federation

honeypot link
How to Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler

How to Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler

  • Shake the inhaler after removing the cap.

  • Exhale fully for 1 or 2 seconds.

  • Put the inhaler in your mouth or 1 to 2 inches from it and start to breathe in slowly, like sipping hot soup.

  • While starting to breathe in, press the top of the inhaler.

  • Breathe in slowly until your lungs are full. (This should take about 5 or 6 seconds.)

  • Hold your breath for 10 seconds (or as long as you can).

  • Breathe out and, if a second dose is required, repeat the procedure after 1 minute.

  • If you find it difficult to coordinate breathing using this method, a spacer can be used.

Metered Dose Inhaler