Pulmicort Flexhaler®
What is a Flexhaler®?
A flexhaler holds asthma medicine which is used every day to help lessen swelling inside the airways in your lungs. The medicine (budesonide, a corticosteroid) is in powder form.
How do I use a Flexhaler®?
- Turn the cover and lift off with the inhaler upright.
- Prime the inhaler for the very first time it is used. To prime, twist the brown grip fully to the right, then fully back again to the left until it clicks. Repeat.
- To load the dose, twist the brown grip fully to the right and fully to the left until it clicks. Do not shake the flexhaler after loading it.
- Breathe or blow out to empty the air out of your airways. Never blow into the flexhaler mouthpiece.
- Place the mouthpiece gently between your teeth; close your lips and breathe in deeply through your mouth.
- Hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
- Before breathing out, remove the inhaler from your mouth.
- If another dose is needed, repeat steps 3-7.
- Replace the cover and twist shut.
- Rinse your mouth with water and spit or brush your teeth.
How do I clean the Flexhaler®?
Use a dry tissue or cloth to clean the mouthpiece.
How many doses are left in the Flexhaler®?
There is a window under the mouthpiece that shows how many doses are left. Your flexhaler® is empty when the number “0” on the red background has reached the middle of the window.
The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #6745.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 08/20/2012
Copyright © 04/04/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6658
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