Inhaler Technique Reviews: Why Your Pharmacist Wants to Watch You Use It

Using an inhaler correctly can seem straightforward—press, breathe, done. But studies show that a surprising number of inhaler users aren't getting the most from their medication because of how they use their device. If you're wondering why your pharmacist wants to watch you use your inhaler, the answer is straightforward: poor technique means less medication reaches your lungs, which directly affects how well your condition is controlled.

This isn't about catching you out. It's about making sure you're getting the full benefit of your medication—and that's something your pharmacist can help with.

Why Does Technique Matter So Much?

When you use an inhaler correctly, the medication reaches your airways where it's needed. When you don't, a significant portion ends up in your mouth, throat, or the air—never reaching your lungs at all.

Poor technique leads to real problems:

• Uncontrolled symptoms – wheezing and breathlessness that should improve but don't
• Over-reliance on reliever inhalers – needing your blue inhaler more often because your preventer isn't working effectively
• Local side effects – medication depositing in the wrong place can cause problems like oral thrush, especially with steroid inhalers
• Unnecessary medication changes – your GP might increase your dose or switch your medication, when the actual issue is technique, not the drug

Getting it right is one of the simplest improvements you can make. NICE guidance on asthma management recognises inhaler technique as central to effective treatment. If your symptoms aren't as well controlled as they should be, poor technique may be part of the reason—and it's one of the easiest things to fix. The NHS's asthma overview also emphasises proper inhaler use as essential to managing the condition well. Your pharmacist can also look at how your inhaler fits into your broader medication management, especially if you're on multiple medicines.

How Common Is Poor Technique?

Very. Research shows that the majority of inhaler users make at least one significant error. This isn't a reflection of intelligence—inhalers are simply tricky to use correctly, and many people are never shown how in the first place.

The problem worsens when you switch inhaler types. Your old technique won't work with your new device, but old habits are hard to break.

The Most Common Mistakes

Check yourself against these:

• Not breathing out fully before use – you need empty lungs to make room for medication
• Poor coordination on press-and-breathe inhalers – timing the press with your breath is critical
• Breathing in too fast – most inhalers work better with a slow, deep breath
• Not holding your breath – holding for a few seconds helps medication settle in your lungs
• Forgetting to shake – essential for metered-dose inhalers to ensure an even dose
• Not using a spacer – spacers make coordination easier and improve medication delivery significantly

What Happens During an Inhaler Technique Review?

It's quick and informal. At your pharmacy, the pharmacist will:

1. Ask you to show how you normally use your inhaler (using your actual device)
2. Watch and note where technique could improve
3. Show you the correct steps
4. Let you practise until you're confident
5. Answer any questions

Usually takes just a few minutes—often during a routine prescription collection. If you're new to a medication, our New Medicine Service can include technique checking alongside other support. More broadly, we see checking your inhaler as part of how pharmacies support your health in Wakefield beyond just filling prescriptions.

Types of Inhalers

There are several types, and each works best with its own technique.

Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs)

These are the press-and-breathe canisters you see most often. You press the canister as you breathe in slowly and deeply—coordination is key. If coordination is difficult, a spacer can help significantly. For COPD, as for asthma, technique consistency is important for maintaining effective treatment.

Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs)

These need a fast, deep breath to draw the powder into your lungs. Unlike MDIs, you should breathe in quickly and forcefully. Common types include Turbohalers and Accuhalers.

Soft Mist Inhalers

These release a slow-moving mist and need a slow, deep inhalation. The technique differs from both MDIs and DPIs.

Your pharmacist can explain the right technique for your specific device and help you feel confident with it.

When Should You Ask for a Review?

You can request one at any time—no invitation needed. It's worth having a review if:

• You've recently been prescribed a new inhaler or switched types
• Your inhaler doesn't seem to be working as well as it used to
• You're using your reliever inhaler more often than usual
• You've never been properly shown how to use it
• It's been years since anyone checked your technique
• You're simply not sure you're doing it right

Technique matters especially if you're managing other health conditions—for instance, if you're an older adult concerned about falls, good inhaler technique is part of overall medication management. If you're dealing with post-viral conditions like Long COVID, respiratory function is particularly important too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a spacer really make that much difference? Yes. Spacers significantly improve how much medication reaches your lungs, particularly if you find coordinating the press and breath difficult. They're especially helpful for children and older adults. Ask your pharmacist whether one would help you.

What if I'm embarrassed about being watched? There's no judgment—we do this regularly and we've seen every possible variation. Your pharmacist's job is to help, not assess you. Getting your technique right is far more important than any awkwardness.

Will my GP know if my technique was poor? Not unless you mention it. But if your symptoms improve after a technique review, that's useful information to share with them—it helps your GP understand what's actually working.

I've been using my inhaler the same way for years. Is it worth checking now? Yes. If you've been using it incorrectly for years, a technique check could make a real difference to how you feel. Habits are hard to break, but your pharmacist can help.

What if a spacer doesn't solve my coordination problem? Some inhalers suit some people better than others. If technique remains difficult even with a spacer, mention it to your pharmacist or GP—there may be alternative devices that work better for you.

Do I need to book an appointment for a review? No. Most pharmacies, including ours at Kingfisher, can do a quick check whenever you visit. If you'd prefer a more detailed discussion, you can ask about booking time with the pharmacist.

Is there anything I shouldn't do with my inhaler? Yes: don't expose it to direct sunlight for long periods, don't store it in extreme heat, and keep the mouthpiece clean. Ask your pharmacist for specific storage advice for your device.

What if I keep forgetting to use my preventer inhaler? That's common. Your pharmacist can suggest ways to build it into your routine—using it when you brush your teeth, for example. Some people find a repeat prescription reminder helpful too.

If you use an inhaler and want your technique checked, visit us at Kingfisher Pharmacy, 192 Kirkgate, Wakefield city centre. Bring your inhaler with you. It's a quick, free check that could make a real difference to how well your condition is controlled. Call us on 01924 291898 or pop in whenever it suits you. Speak to a member of our team about how we can support your respiratory health.