Dismiss Modal

Management

Step-by-Step: Using a Steroid Inhaler

Choose a preferred language

Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Check the expiration date on the canister of your inhaler. Remove the cap covering the mouthpiece. Shake your inhaler up and down for five seconds. Prime it if needed by facing the mouthpiece away from you and pushing down on the canister three times. Stand up straight or sit up straight. Breathe in once. Breathe out once. Place the mouthpiece of your inhaler two fingertips length away from your lips. Press down on the canister once. Breathe in for five seconds. Hold your breath for 10 seconds. Breathe out once. Place the cap back onto the mouthpiece. Rinse your mouth out with a sip of water and spit it back out.

Featured in

Author: Zapalac, Mary Ann

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Get Connected to a Care Manager

Get Connected
Related Articles
Read article
Lung Health
How to Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler with a Spacer and a Mask

A metered-dose inhaler sends medicine to the airways in your lungs. You must use the inhaler the right way for it to work. This video shows you how to use one with a spacer and a mask.

Read article
Lung Health
Step-by-Step: Inhaler Care: Weekly Cleaning

This video shows the steps for cleaning your inhaler.

Read article
Lung Health
Asthma Management: The Animal Allergen

Learn common strategies for reducing and dealing with the animal allergen.

Read article
Lung Health
Air Quality and Asthma

Watch this video to learn about air quality, how it affects someone with asthma, and how to find out about the air quality in your area each day.