Spacers
A spacer is a special device shaped like a clear plastic football or tube. Aerosol medications are sprayed into this device and then inhaled through a facemask or mouthpiece. Spacers come in many shapes and sizes. Your choice will depend on medication type, your age and ability. Children under 3-4 years of age will need a spacer with a facemask.
Using a spacer helps control asthma because:
- There are fewer side effects from the medication
- It is easier to use than an inhaler alone
- More medication is inhaled
For more information on using a spacer and maintenance of the spacer see our information sheet: ‘Spacer Technique’ or ‘Mask and Spacer Technique for infants and Toddlers’.
Initially when you purchase a spacer device you should:
- Wash the spacer in warm water with dish washing detergent
- Do not rinse
- Leave the spacer to air dry
Do not use a cloth to dry the spacer as it produces an electrostatic charge which leads to attraction of the medication particles to the inside of the spacer.
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