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
Asthma Management: The Mold Allergen

Mold can affect people with asthma; watch how you can reduce it in and around your home.

Read article
Lung Health
Step-by-Step: Using a Dry-Powder Diskus Inhaler

This video shows how to use a dry-powder diskus inhaler.

Read article
Lung Health
Step-by-Step: Using a Nebulizer with a Mouthpiece

This video shows how to use a nebulizer with a mouthpiece.

Read article
Lung Health
Asthma Management: The Pollen Allergen

Watch this clip to learn how you can help manage your asthma when you are outdoors and when the pollen count is high.