Asthma: Using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer.

Asthma: Using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer Reviewed by SickKids Hospital Staff Last updated: January 29th 2009 Inhalers are most effective when used in with a spacer, or aerosol-holdi ng chamber. Learn how to use and administer a metered dose inhaler with a spacer. Key points A metered-dose inhaler (MDI) should be used with a spacer to get a dose of medicine into your child's lungs. Young children will need help using an MDI properly. Younger children may need to use a spacer with a mask. When they are old enough to use a spacer with a mouthpiece, they should switch. Spacers with mouthpieces deliver medicine more effectively. If your child has asthma, it is important you make sure they are receiving the dosage of their medicine effectively. Learn how to deliver your child's asthma medicine using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer, which attaches to a mouthpiece or a mask. What is a spacer? What is a metered-dose inhaler? Many asthma medicines are given using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). An MDI is made up of a metal canister inserted into a plastic holder. The metal canister contains the asthma medicine. When the canister is pushed down, it sprays a puff of medicine out. An MDI should be used with a spacer in order to get the dose of medicine into the lungs. Young children cannot use an MDI properly by themselves. You will need to help your child. Young children under the age of nine usually cannot use an MDI properly by themselves. You will need to help your child.