Management

Priming Your Metered-Dose Inhaler

Choose a preferred language


Step-by-Step

  1. Hands scrubbing with soap under faucet with running water.

    Wash your hands.

  2. Hands holding inhaler upright, with canister visible at top of inhaler and arrow pointing to date on canister.

    Check the expiration date.

  3. Hand holding inhaler upright, shaking inhaler up and down, with clock showing time passing.

    Shake your inhaler for 5 seconds.

  4. Hand holding inhaler upright, with other hand removing cap from mouthpiece.

    Take the cap off.

  5. Person holding inhaler upright with one hand, pointing inhaler away from face.

    Point your inhaler away from you.

  6. Hand holding inhaler upright and pointed away, with finger pressing on top of canister to spray medicine.

    Press down on the top three times.

  7. Hand holding inhaler upright, no cap on mouthpiece.

    Now your inhaler is ready to use.

© 2000-2026 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.
schedule icon

Schedule an Appointment

Find the right provider and schedule anytime.

View Providers
Related Articles
Read article
Lung Health
Cleaning Your Metered-Dose Inhaler

Here are images showing you how to clean your metered-dose inhaler.

Read article
Lung Health
Breathing Methods: Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing involves breathing with your diaphragm, a large muscle located below your lungs. Using your diaphragm makes breathing easier. Try this belly breathing exercise.

Read article
Lung Health
Pursed-Lip Breathing

Pursed-lip breathing can help you get more oxygen into your lungs when you're short of breath. Learn how and when to do it.

Read article
Lung Health
Chronic Lung Disease: My Travel Checklist

Chronic lung disease shouldn't stop you from traveling, visiting family and friends, and enjoying yourself—even if you use oxygen. Here are some helpful travel tips.

Powered by

WebMD Ignite

Copyright © 2026 WebMD Ignite except where otherwise noted.

About

Privacy Policy & Terms of Use

Do Not Sell My Personal Information

Your Privacy Choices

NCQA Certified
URAC Certified