these are the general steps for using a metered dose inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: 1. remove the cap from the metered dose inhaler. 2. shake the inhaler for a few seconds. 3. place your index finger on top of the canister and thumb on the bottom of the mouthpiece. 4. tilt your head back slightly and breathe out. 5. hold the inhaler upright about the width of two fingers from your mouth. 6. breathe in and out slowly through your mouth one time. 7. press down on the inhaler as you breathe in as slowly and deeply as you can -- about three to five seconds. 8. if possible hold your breath for at least 10 seconds. 9. if your doctor prescribed more than one puff of copd medication wait about one minute and repeat steps 2 through 8. 10. replace the cap on the metered dose inhaler. 11. gargle and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash (usually advised only for steroid-type inhalers).
how do i use a metered dose inhaler?