Medication
My asthma inhaler device changed. Can I use my old technique?
Ask your clinician or pharmacist to check the ingredients, dose per inhalation and device. Then demonstrate your technique using the new device.
Why check the device when the medicine name looks similar?
Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital describes metered-dose and dry powder inhalers separately. If the box looks different, ask your pharmacist to check the active ingredients, strength per inhalation and exact device name. If your overseas prescription only lists a brand name, show the original box and a photo of the device. Hospital guide to asthma inhalers
What changes between a press-and-breathe inhaler and a dry powder device?
The hospital guide explains that a pressurised metered-dose inhaler requires coordination between pressing and breathing in. A dry powder device uses your breath to draw in the powder. Different models may prepare the dose differently. Ask the care team to demonstrate on the exact device. Hospital guide to asthma inhalers
| Device | What to check with the clinician or pharmacist |
|---|---|
| Pressurised metered-dose inhaler | How to coordinate pressing and breathing in, and whether a spacer is compatible |
| Dry powder inhaler | How to load a dose and whether your inhalation technique is appropriate |
Show the pharmacist how you use the new device before refilling
Beijing’s inhaler guidance explains sprays and dry powder devices separately. Ask for a demonstration and then show the pharmacist how you would take a dose so they can correct individual steps. Write both device names and the confirmed instructions on your medicine list. If your usual device is unavailable in China, ask your clinician to assess alternatives. Beijing inhaler guidance
Frequently asked questions
I used a spacer before. Can I keep using it if my new inhaler is a dry powder device?
Bring the new device and old spacer to the pharmacist. Ask them to check compatibility and show you how to use the new device.
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