Many medications are available as inhaled treatments. Inhaled methods deliver medication directly to the airway, which is helpful for lung diseases. The patient and healthcare provider can choose from a variety of delivery systems for inhaling medication.
A Flexhaler® consists of a plastic device containing dry powdered medication, and it is breath activated. This means when you inhale, the Flexhaler® automatically releases the medication. When inhaled correctly, the medication has a better chance to reach the small airways. This increases the medication's effectiveness. The portable size, efficiency and convenience make the Flexhaler® a desirable method for inhalation treatment.
Before Using a New Flexhaler®
Only follow these steps the first time you use your new Flexhaler®.
- Remove the cap from the Flexhaler® by unscrewing the cap.
- Hold the Flexhaler® with the mouthpiece up.
- Turn the brown bottom of the Flexhaler® all the way to the right and back to the left. You will hear it click.
- Repeat steps 2-3.
Taking an Inhaled Treatment
Remove the cap from the Flexhaler® by unscrewing the cap.
- Hold the Flexhaler® with the mouthpiece up. This will load the medication correctly.
- Turn the bottom all the way to the right and back to the left. You will hear it click. This will load the medication.
- Hold the Flexhaler® away from your mouth and gently breathe out.
- Seal your lips around the mouthpiece.
- Inhale rapidly and deeply. Continue to take a full, deep breath.
- Resume normal breathing.
- Repeat steps 1-7 when more than one puff is prescribed.
- Rinse your mouth and spit out the water after inhaling the medication.
- Keep the Flexhaler® cap on when not in use. This will keep the Flexhaler® clean and dry.
Identifying When the Flexhaler® is Empty
The Flexhaler® has a dose counter window below the mouthpiece. It will let you know approximately how many doses are left. As you use the Flexhaler® the numbers will count down by 10. The Flexhaler® will count down to zero in the center of the window when the Flexhaler® is empty. Plan to get a new Flexhaler® before you see the zero in the window.
Cleaning the Flexhaler®
Wipe the mouthpiece with a clean cloth at least once a week or if it appears dirty. Do not put the Flexhaler in water.
This information has been reviewed and approved by Ann Mullen, RN, CNS, MSN, AE-C (December 2014)