Using an Autohaler
This device is called an autohaler. It is a breath-activated device, which means the medication is released when you inhale.
Before you use the autohaler for the very first time, you will need to prime it. To prime the autohaler, point the mouthpiece away from yourself. Raise the top lever so that it stays up, while the autohaler is upright.
To release a priming spray, push the white slide with an arrow on the bottom of the mouthpiece. Push this in the direction of the arrow and the spray will be released. Repeat these steps a second time to release a second spray. If you’ve not used the autohaler in 48 hours, you’ll need to prime it again.
When you are ready to take a dose of the medication, remove the cap from the autohaler by puling down on the lid on the back of the cap. Check the mouthpiece for any foreign objects. Hold the autohaler with the mouthpiece down. Do not cover the air vents at the bottom of the autohaler. Raise the top lever so that it stays up while the autohaler is upright. Shake the autohaler.
Gently breathe out and seal your lips tightly around the mouthpiece. Inhale deeply with steady, moderate force. Hold your breath for as long as you can or up to ten seconds. Lower the lever on the autohaler and repeat for each dose, you’ve been told to take.
Check the information that comes with the autohaler to see how many puffs are in the device. You'll need to keep track of how many puffs you are using to get a new device, before you finish the current device.
To clean the autohaler, remove the mouthpiece cover. Wipe the mouthpiece with a clean dry cloth. Turn the mouthpiece upside down and you'll see a trap door that’s opened. Wipe the inside of the trap door in the opening where the spray comes out with a cotton swab. Put the mouthpiece cover on the autohaler after you choose to help it stay clean.
National Jewish Health has been ranked by the US News & World Report as the number one Respiratory Hospital in the nation for 11 years in a row. Find out more, at njhealth.org.
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