The Importance of Using Asthma Spacers with Inhaled Medicines

 

Asthma Spacers

What are Asthma Spacers?

Spacers are devices used to administer inhaled medications for asthma. They are attached to metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) to help deliver medication deep into the lungs. When used correctly with MDIs, spacers can provide patients with better asthma control.

How do Spacers Work?

When someone uses an MDI alone, much of the medication deposits on the mouth and throat instead of reaching the Asthma Spacers. This reduces the effectiveness of treatment. Spacers work by holding the medication cloud inside the device after an actuation. This allows small particles to settle so they can be inhaled slowly and deeply into the lungs over time, rather than being deposited elsewhere.

Inside a spacer, there is a one-way valve that prevents exhaled air from entering the chamber. When a person inhales through the mouthpiece, air is drawn into the chamber carrying medication from the MDI actuation. The large chamber volume allows time for proper inhalation and better distribution of medication to lung passages.

Benefits of Using a Asthma Spacers

Several studies have demonstrated multiple advantages of using spacers with MDIs compared to MDIs alone:

- Increased drug delivery to lungs: Up to 60-70% more medication reaches the lungs when using a spacer versus an MDI alone. This leads to better therapeutic response.

- Ease of use: Spacers are found to be easier for patients, especially children, elderly, and those with poor coordination, to use properly compared to MDIs alone. This improves inhaler technique and medication adherence.

- Less oral deposition: Only 10-20% of the medication dose deposits in the mouth and throat rather than 50-75% without a spacer. This reduces unwanted side effects.

- Fits various ages: Spacers are suitable for use by patients of all ages including infants, children, and seniors who may have difficulty using other devices. Adjustable face masks help young children.

Choosing the Right Asthma Spacers

Several types of spacers are available to best suit each patient's needs:

- Aerochamber Plus: One of the most commonly prescribed spacers. It is lightweight and comes with a face mask for kids.

- Optichamber: Clear chamber allows monitoring of proper inhaler technique. Helps coaching patients and families.

- Volumatic: Features a tight-fitting mask for infants and toddlers who cannot yet breathe through a mouthpiece.

- Inspirease: Collapsible design makes it portable. Good option for travel or storing in small purses/bags.

- BreatheRite: Features breath-activated technology that releases a dose after patient inhales, making it easier to use than holding breath.

Cleaning and Maintenance

To maintain optimal functionality, asthma spacers should be cleaned weekly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically involves:

- Washing all components in warm water with a mild detergent to remove any buildup

- Rinsing well and allowing all parts to air dry thoroughly before reassembling

- Replacing worn parts like masks as needed for a good fit

- Not using harsh chemicals or placing parts in a dishwasher or microwave which can damage plastic

Proper cleaning keeps the spacer hygienic and prevents the growth of bacteria or fungi that could potentially cause infections. Patients should replace spacers every 6 months.

Using Spacers Correctly

Following a few simple steps ensures spacers are utilized to their maximum effectiveness:

- Shake the MDI canister well before attaching it to the spacer

- Exhale fully away from the spacer before placing mouthpiece between teeth/lips and inhaling slowly

- Actuate the MDI into the spacer during a slow, deep breath in over 3-5 seconds

- Take 1-2 more breaths from the spacer to ensure all medication is inhaled

- Rinse mouth after use to reduce any oral deposition of medication

- Wash hands before and after use to prevent contamination

With consistent use of asthma spacers as recommended by doctors, patients can gain much better control over asthma symptoms and experience fewer exacerbations over time. Spacers are an important tool to optimize inhaled therapy delivery when used properly along with MDIs.

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About Author:

Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)