Ok..it’s time we learn the “why” of using spacers, because most patients don’t use them on a regular basis. Spacers do several things for your pocketbook and your asthma:

1. This spacer below can be purchased for < $10 on-line at Amazon. That’s almost better than a used toilet roll cardboard! Yes, we used to use and recommend I might add this “makeshift” spacer for patients because the others were too expensive.
2. Your asthma inhaler is much more effective when you use a spacer, because the aerosol is delivered deep into the lungs where you need it–in the small airways. Make sure you don’t use a spacer with dry powder –not needed here. For example, Advair has both dry powder and aerosol; the choice is yours, but no spacer for the dry powder.
3. If you’re using an aerosol or MDI, you may find that only 1 puff is needed–you save money with similar results, but check with your doctor first before making that kind of switch.
4. Now you know why we harp on you to use your spacer–saves money and better results.

Go out (or order from home) and get you one today! Leave me a note on how it works. Happy breathing–Dr. Wiens