Respiratory symptoms associated with asthma or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), are commonly treated with prescription aerosol medications delivered through pressurized Metered Dose Inhalers (pMDIs) or “puffers”. A puffer contains two things: the medication and the propellant that carries the medication to the lungs. Aerosol therapies are effective because they act quickly and with few side-effects.

However, because typical puffers deliver a dose at over 100 km per hour [Newman, 1983], effective delivery of the medication to the lungs can be difficult. To be effective, the puffer needs to be pressed during inhalation so the medication is able to reach the deepest part of the lungs. Without this coordination, the benefit of the medication is minimized as some of the medication is trapped in the mouth or throat and will be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Mastering the right inhalation technique is difficult. AeroChamber Plus* Valved Holding Chamber (VHC) with Flow-Vu* Inspiratory Flow Indicator (IFI) allows caregivers to count patient breaths, ensure a satisfactory seal, coordinate pressing the puffer with inhalation and feel secure in knowing they are using proper technique. By removing potential for mistakes, there is time to take a slow deep breath – helping to ensure the medication gets where it is needed – deep in the lungs.

The more control you have over your medication – the more control you have over your symptoms.