In this short video, we show you how to use your Respimat inhaler correctly.
This is a type of soft-mist inhaler (SMI). You do not need to use a spacer for this device. However, you can use one if you find it helpful.
We know from calls to our helpline that some people find it difficult to use this device. You could ask a nurse or pharmacist to help you use it for the first time.
Expert advice for using a Respimat inhaler
Hello, I’m Caroline. I’m a respiratory nurse specialist. I’m going to show you how to use a Respimat inhaler, also known as a soft-mist inhaler.
Getting your inhaler technique right is very important because it helps you manage your symptoms better. It may take a few tries to feel comfortable using your inhaler, but it does get easier with practice.
When you first receive a prescription for a Respimat inhaler, you will receive a pack containing an empty inhaler and a cartridge that you will need to insert. Repeat prescriptions will usually just be for a refill cartridge. However, you will need a new inhaler every six months.
Before using your Respimat inhaler, you will need to prepare it:
1. To insert a cartridge, keep the cap closed and press the safety catch on the side to remove the clear base.
2. Insert a new cartridge into the inhaler and click it into place by pressing the inhaler down on a firm surface [like a table].
3. Remember to mark on the check box on your inhaler to indicate that you have used a new cartridge, and then put the clear base back into place.
Now you need to prime your inhaler. [This is called the priming sequence, which means that you’re setting up your inhaler]:
4. Hold your inhaler upright with the cap closed. You should only turn the base when the cap is closed, otherwise the inhaler may spray a dose as you turn the base.
5. Turn the clear base in the direction of the arrows until it clicks.
6. Open the cap fully.
7. Point the inhaler towards the floor away from you and press the big grey button [near the top of the inhaler on the side].
8. Close the cap. If you do not see a white cloud [of medicine], repeat the priming sequence until you see a cloud [of medicine].
9. Once you can see a cloud [of medicine], repeat the priming sequence three more times.
Your inhaler is now ready for use.
If you have not used your inhaler for one to three weeks, you will need to repeat the priming sequence (steps 4 to 8) once.
If you have not used your inhaler for more than three weeks, you will need to repeat the priming sequence as if you are preparing a new inhaler (steps 4 to 9). [You will need to do steps 1 to 9 every time you replace the cartridge.]
Your inhaler is now ready for use:
10. First, check the dose indicator to make sure the cartridge is not empty.
11. Hold the inhaler upright, with the cap closed.
12. Turn the base in the direction of the arrows until it clicks.
13. Push up the catch on the side of the inhaler and open the cap.
14. Hold the inhaler horizontally. Check that there is nothing inside the inhaler mouthpiece.
15. Sit or stand up straight and slightly tilt your chin up, so that you’re pointing the inhaler towards the back of your throat.
The next steps all happen smoothly in one action.
16. Breathe out gently and slowly [through your mouth] away from the inhaler until your lungs feel empty and you feel ready to breathe in.
17. Put your lips around the mouthpiece of the inhaler to make a tight seal without blocking the two holes on either side.
18. Start to breathe in slowly and steadily [through your mouth], and at the same time, press the big grey button on the inhaler once.
19. Continue to breathe in slowly until your lungs feel full.
20. Take the inhaler out of your mouth and hold your breath for up to 10 seconds, or for as long as you comfortably can.
21. Then breathe out gently [through your mouth] away from your inhaler.
22. Wait for 30 seconds and repeat (steps 15 to 21) for a second puff, remembering to close the cap before you turn the base.
23. When you have finished, close the cap on the inhaler.
When the cartridge in the inhaler is empty, the dose counter will turn red and show a down arrow. This indicates that you need to replace the cartridge.
[To replace the cartridge:]
24. As you turn the clear base, it will loosen, and your inhaler will be in a locked position.
25. Pull out the empty cartridge from the inhaler and then insert a new cartridge as before [follow steps 1 to 3 under ‘Before using your Respimat inhaler’. Remember to prime your inhaler as well, following steps 4 to 9].
26. When you have used an inhaler with six cartridges, you should get a new Respimat inhaler device. It may be useful to make a note of when you first started using it.
For more tips on using your inhaler, why not watch our other videos.
Call 999 if:
You’re having an asthma attack or flare-up of your lung condition, and your reliever inhaler is not helping.
Check your inhaler technique
Good inhaler technique helps you breathe the medicine straight into your lungs, where it’s needed. This gives you the best chance of managing your symptoms.
If you’re using your inhaler as prescribed with the right technique, it can help you:
- manage your symptoms without needing to take a higher dose of your medicine
- reduce your risk of having an asthma attack or COPD flare-up. The medical word for this is exacerbation.
- manage your triggers better
- reduce side effects
- make your medicine last longer
- sleep better
- take part in exercise or other activities.
Even if you think your inhaler technique is OK, you may still be able to improve it so that more of the medicine gets deep into your lungs.
It’s especially important to check your inhaler technique if:
- your symptoms are getting worse, or you’ve recently had an asthma attack or COPD flare-up (exacerbation)
- you’re using a new type of inhaler.
You can ask your GP, nurse or pharmacist to check your inhaler technique. Remember that you do not need an appointment to get help from a pharmacist at your local pharmacy.
Tips to help you use your inhaler correctly
Try sitting or standing up straight when using your inhaler. Lifting your chin slightly and holding the inhaler upright can help the medicine reach your lungs.
You might find it helpful to sit or stand in front of a mirror to check your head position.
Place the inhaler in your mouth and make a tight seal around the mouthpiece. A tight seal helps make sure you get the full dose of the medicine.
Before using your inhaler, breathe out through your mouth as much as you can. This creates more space in your lungs so you can take a full breath in through your mouth when you use your inhaler.
Holding your breath after taking your inhaler allows the medicine to settle in your lungs.
If you can, hold your breath for 10 seconds. But only hold your breath for as long as you feel comfortable – the inhaler will still work.
Some preventer inhalers and combination inhalers, like Maintenance and Reliever Therapy (MART) and anti-inflammatory reliever (AIR), contain steroid medicine.
The steroid medicine can build up on the back of your throat, mouth and tongue and cause side effects including:
- a hoarse voice
- cough
- sore throat
- a mouth infection called oral thrush.
Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after using your preventer or combination inhaler. This can help to clear any medicine that is stuck in your mouth or throat and help prevent side effects.
Getting into a good medicine routine
- Set yourself daily reminders on your phone. This can be useful if you’re away from home too. You could also write yourself a note in your diary or in your calendar. You may also want to set a reminder for ordering your prescriptions too.
- Keep your inhaler and spacer (if you have one) on your bedside table or near something else you use often, like your daily bag or keys.
- Link taking your inhaler to another daily habit. Research shows you’re more likely to remember to take your medicine every day if you link it to something you already do.
- Ask family or friends to remind you or use an app like the NHS medication reminder service.
This video is not a replacement for professional medical advice. If you’re finding it hard to use your inhaler or you’re worried about your symptoms, please speak with a healthcare professional.
Your GP, nurse or pharmacist can check your inhaler technique. Remember that you do not need an appointment to get help from a pharmacist at your local pharmacy.
Always read the patient information leaflet inside your medicine packet. It tells you more about your medicine, including all the possible side effects and how to store the medicine safely. Speak to your GP, nurse or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Asthma + Lung UK does not endorse or recommend specific products. Read more about how we create our health advice information.
Get support
Call our helpline for support with your condition. Get advice on your medicines, symptoms or travelling with a lung condition, or just call us to say hello.
Find out more
Maintaining and looking after your inhaler
