Using your asthma inhaler: Tips for better control

Asthma inhalers are small but powerful tools — they help keep symptoms in check and can lower the risk of flare‑ups. But here’s the catch: even the right medication may not do its job if your technique is off. A quick refresher on how your inhaler works can make a real difference in how you feel day to day.

Asthma inhaler types

Not all inhalers work the same way — and that matters when it comes to getting the full dose of medication.

Some people use metered-dose inhalers, where you press down on a canister while breathing in. Others use dry-powder inhalers, which rely on a steady, deep breath to pull the medicine into your lungs. Getting the timing and breath right can help more medication reach where it’s needed most.

Metered-dose inhalers can also be paired with a spacer — a clear tube that slows things down a bit. This extra step may help more of the medicine travel deep into your lungs instead of settling in your mouth or throat.

Rescue inhalers

Rescue inhalers are your quick-response option. They work fast to ease symptoms like wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath — often within minutes.

It’s a good idea to keep one nearby, especially if you have moderate to severe asthma or a history of flare-ups. Some people also use a rescue inhaler before exercise to help prevent symptoms before they start. Used the right way, these inhalers can offer reliable relief — right when you need it.

Seasonal allergens, including pollen, can trigger flare-ups for some people.

Maintenance inhalers

In addition to a rescue inhaler, you might also have a prescription for a maintenance inhaler. These types of asthma medications also deliver medication into your airways to prevent symptoms of asthma.

They contain corticosteroids that reduce inflammation and mucus for better long-term asthma control. You’ll likely be instructed to use your maintenance inhaler once or twice per day. It's important to continue using them as prescribed even when you're feeling well.

Combination inhalers

Some maintenance inhalers are also combination inhalers. Combination inhalers contain corticosteroid and bronchodilator medications. They help support longer-term asthma control by combining two types of medication in a single inhaler.

They’re typically used in the same way as maintenance inhalers, and they may reduce your need for a rescue inhaler. Certain combination inhalers can now also be used as both a maintenance and rescue inhaler if prescribed by your provider.

Using a metered dose inhaler

Here are the steps for using a metered-dose inhaler:

• Remove the cap and shake the inhaler for a few seconds.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for priming the inhaler before use.
• Stand or sit up straight and empty your lungs.
• Close your lips around the mouthpiece, or spacer mouthpiece, while keeping your tongue below it.
• Start a slow deep breath while pressing the canister down once.
• Remove the mouthpiece, close your lips, and hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
• Wait a minute and then repeat the process if your medication directions say to do so.

Using a dry-powder inhaler

Here are the steps for using a dry-powder inhaler:

• Follow your inhaler’s instructions for loading a dose.
• Stand or sit up straight and empty your lungs of air.
• Close your mouth around the mouthpiece while keeping your tongue below it or out of the way.
• Take a deep breath to draw the dose into your airways.
• Repeat if directed to do so.

Common inhaler mistakes

• Forgetting maintenance doses
• Not using a spacer when recommended
• Poor inhalation timing
• Using an empty inhaler

If you’re unsure whether you’re using your inhaler correctly, you can ask your pharmacist or prescribing provider to watch you take your medication. They can offer pointers to improve your technique if needed.