Inhaler technique – Respimat

1. Ensure the Respimat inhaler has had a cartridge inserted. Hold the device upright with the green mouthpiece cover closed.
2. Turn the base for half a turn in the direction of the red arrows on the label. You should hear a click. Open the green mouthpiece cover.
3. Breathe out gently as far as is comfortable and not in the Respimat.
4. Put the mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips around it. Ensure your teeth and tongue are not blocking the mouthpiece.
5. Breathe in with a slow and steady breath. Press the grey dose release button and continue to inhale deeply.
6. Remove the Respimat from your mouth and hold your breath for up to 10 seconds or as long as you feel comfortable.
7. For your second dose, repeat steps 1 to 6. Close the mouthpiece cover after use.

• Spiriva.
• Striverdi.
• Spiolto.

They all work differently to treat asthma or COPD. Your inhaler has been prescribed for you only and to treat your specific lung condition.

• The medicine in this inhaler is a long acting bronchodilator which relaxes the muscles in your airways making it easier to get air in and out of your lungs.
• The effects of the medicine last for 24 hours so you only use your inhaler at the same time once every day.
• Each time you use it, take two puffs at the same time everyday.
• If you have missed a dose, take it as soon as your remember. Do not inhale more than 2 puffs in a single day.
• If you use more than two puffs in one day or wish to stop using your inhaler, please seek medical advice.
• Clean the mouthpiece including the metal part inside the mouthpiece with a damp cloth or tissue only, at least once a week.

• Refer to the patient information leaflet contained in the packaging on how to prepare your inhaler for use or ask your pharmacist to demonstrate this for you.
• You will need to use this inhaler ONCE a day at the same time every day.
• The dose indicator shows how many doses remain in the cartridge.
• Each cartridge will last for 30 days with normal use.
• Recommended use: 6 cartridges per inhaler.
• When you have used your inhaler with 6 cartridges, get a new re-usable pack containing an inhaler from your doctor.
• Store your inhaler at room temperature.
• Clean the mouthpiece including the metal part inside the mouthpiece with a damp cloth or tissue once a week.

7 Steps to Success, Inhaler Technique (2014) (adapted).

Asthma UK, ‘How to use your inhaler’ videos.

Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, “My Lungs My Life” videos.

‘Getting the basics right, Inhaler Technique’. Primary Care Respiratory Society (2016).

Royal Sussex County Hospital COPD Nurse Specialist: 01273 523109.

Worthing Hospital Respiratory Nurse Specialists: 01903 205111. Extension: 85858.

St Richard’s Hospital Respiratory Nurse Specialists: 01243 788122. Extension: 32395.

You can also contact your community pharmacist or practice nurse for advice.

The information here is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.