To maximize lung delivery when using a metered-dose inhaler, which device option is recommended?

To maximize lung delivery when using a metered-dose inhaler, which device option is recommended?

• A. It requires no spacer
• B. It should be used with a net inhalation technique
• C. Spacer reduces oropharyngeal deposition and improves lung delivery
• D. It should be taken only once daily

Answer: (C)

Maximizing lung delivery with an inhaler hinges on getting as much of the aerosol into the lungs as possible while minimizing deposition in the mouth and throat. An MDI shoots out a fine, fast spray, and without a spacer, many of those particles deposit in the oropharynx or are swallowed if the timing between actuation and inhalation isn’t perfect. A spacer provides a chamber that slows the droplets and allows the patient to inhale more slowly and deeply. This gives more of the medication a chance to reach the lower airways rather than sticking to the throat. It also makes it easier to coordinate actuation with inhalation, which is especially helpful for children or anyone with coordination challenges. By reducing oropharyngeal deposition, a spacer not only improves the amount of drug reaching the lungs but can also lessen local irritation and side effects. So the best approach to maximize lung delivery is to use the spacer with the metered-dose inhaler.

Maximizing lung delivery with an inhaler hinges on getting as much of the aerosol into the lungs as possible while minimizing deposition in the mouth and throat. An MDI shoots out a fine, fast spray, and without a spacer, many of those particles deposit in the oropharynx or are swallowed if the timing between actuation and inhalation isn’t perfect. A spacer provides a chamber that slows the droplets and allows the patient to inhale more slowly and deeply. This gives more of the medication a chance to reach the lower airways rather than sticking to the throat. It also makes it easier to coordinate actuation with inhalation, which is especially helpful for children or anyone with coordination challenges. By reducing oropharyngeal deposition, a spacer not only improves the amount of drug reaching the lungs but can also lessen local irritation and side effects. So the best approach to maximize lung delivery is to use the spacer with the metered-dose inhaler.