What is the main purpose of using a spacer with an inhaler?

The main purpose of using a spacer with an inhaler is to improve medication delivery to the lungs. A spacer is a device that attaches to a metered-dose inhaler, creating a chamber that holds the medication as it is released. This allows the patient to inhale the medication more slowly and deeply, effectively ensuring that a higher proportion of the medication reaches the airways and lungs rather than being deposited in the mouth or throat. This is particularly important for individuals with asthma, as effective delivery of medication can result in better management of symptoms and improved overall lung function.

Using a spacer also helps reduce the coordination required between pressing the inhaler and inhaling, which can be challenging for some patients, particularly children or those with severe asthma attacks. Overall, the spacer enhances the efficiency of the inhaler, leading to better therapeutic outcomes.