How to use a Turbuhaler

Using a Turbuhaler

1. Unscrew and remove the protective cover.
2. Hold the Turbuhaler upright.
3. Twist the coloured grip as far as it will go in one direction and then back in the other direction. You will hear a ‘click’. Your Turbuhaler is now loaded with a dose of medication.
4. Hold the inhaler away from your mouth and breathe out fully.
5. Place the mouthpiece between your teeth without biting and close your lips to form a good seal. Do not cover air vents.
6. Suck in sharply and forcefully through the Turbuhaler. Hold your breath for about five seconds or as long as comfortable.
7. While holding your breath, remove the inhaler from your mouth.
8. Breathe out slowly and gently, away from the inhaler. Do not breathe back into the mouthpiece as you will make it damp inside.
9. If more than one dose is required, repeat the steps 2 to 7 above.
10. When you are finished, place the cover back on the inhaler and twist shut.
11. Rinse your mouth with water and spit out if you are using a corticosteroid-containing Turbuhaler. This reduces side effects such as a husky voice, sore throat, or fungal growth inside the mouth (oral thrush).

Caring for your Turbuhaler

1. Do not wash your Turbuhaler, as it will not work properly if it gets wet.
2. Wipe the mouthpiece with a dry tissue or cloth.
3. Keep the cap on when not in use.
4. Do not store in a bathroom or wet area, as moisture will prevent the Tubuhaler from working properly.

When to get a new Turbuhaler

Your Turbuhaler has a dose indicator window just below the mouthpiece; when you see red in the window it is time to get a new Turbuhaler.

For a useful How to video visit the National Asthma Council Australia.