An inhaler is the most effective method of giving asthma medication as it ensures that the medication goes directly to the lungs where it’s needed and requires smaller dosages than tablets. A spacer device is a plastic container with a mouthpiece or mask at one end, and space to insert an inhaler at the other. Spacer devices ensure the person with asthma gets the maximum benefit from their medication and helps direct it to where it’s needed in the lungs.

Advantages of spacer devices

  • They make inhalers easier to use.
  • They increase the amount of medication that reaches the airways.
  • They reduce the risk of side effects from controller medication, such as oral thrush.

Spacer devices should be replaced annually at least. You can view demonstration videos on inhaler and spacer technique here.

Spacer devices and children

Children should always use a spacer with their inhaler, especially children under 4. There are several different brands of spacer device (Aerochamber, Volumatic, Babyhaler, etc.), with some available on prescription.

Spacer devices with masks

Spacers with masks are generally used to improve the delivery of inhaled medication for children. Here is how to use a spacer with a mask:

  1. Shake the inhaler.
  2. Insert the inhaler into the spacer.
  3. Place the mask over the child’s mouth and nose, ensuring that there is a tight seal.
  4. Press the inhaler once and allow the child to breath in and out slowly five times.
  5. Some spacers have a valve which shows the breath going in and out. If so, you can watch this to make sure your child takes five breaths of their medication.
  6. Repeat steps 2-5 for each prescribed dose of medication.

Top tips for using a spacer with a mask

Making sure children take their medication correctly is very important, but using aspacer can be difficult for young children. Here are some tips:

  • Let your child play with their spacer before they use it so they get used to it.
  • Be positive – your child will sense if you’re anxious.
  • Avoid giving children medication when they are upset as it may make things worse and reduce the amount of medication they breathe in.
  • Distract your child with music or videos.
  • It is better to give children their medication when they are awake.
  • Count out loud to six each time you give them a puff of their inhaler so they know how long they need to breathe through the spacer. Remove the mask on the count of six.
  • Praise your child after they have taken their inhaler.
  • Always wipe your child’s face after they have taken their controller inhaler.

Related resources