Use of Inhalers for Respiratory Disease

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Inhalers with AeroChambers (sometimes called ‘spacer devices’) are extremely useful in controlling respiratory disease in horses but they must be used properly in order to get effective levels of medication into your horse’s lungs. Numerous scientific studies have shown that each of the following steps increases the effectiveness of inhalers.

1. WARM the inhaler to body temperature before use (in your hand or pocket) especially in the winter.
2. SHAKE the inhaler for 30seconds before use.
3. REMOVE cap of the inhaler.
4. WASTE the first spray of the inhaler, as this does not contain medication.
5. ATTACH the inhaler to the AeroChamber and keep the inhaler vertical.
6. APPLY the mask of the AeroChamber to cover one nostril (usually left) 
7. WATCH the breathing pattern of the horse for a few breaths and press the inhaler just before or immediately after the horse begins to breath in.
8. Allow a full inward breath to take in all of the spray.
9. If possible- obstruct both nostrils after the horse has breathed in to enforce breath holding for 5-10secs.
10. Wait at least 30secs before the next spray and shake again beforehand.

Looking after your AeroChamber:

• Wash the AeroChamber weekly in detergent. Don’t rinse with water afterwards. Allow to drip dry overnight (don’t towel dry).
• Keep a record of the number of doses used so you know when the inhaler is empty (it will continue to spray after the drug has run out).

If you have any questions regarding using the inhaler or AeroChamber please do not hesitate to contact us.