by What are Asthma Spacers?
Common spacer devices for asthma inhalers
Asthma spacers, also known as valved holding chambers (VHCs), are plastic tube-like devices that fit over the end of pressurized metered-dose inhalers (MDIs). They were designed to help patients, especially children, get the full dosage of asthma medication from their inhalers more effectively. By providing a holding area for the medication mist, spacers ensure a higher percentage of the drug reaches the lungs rather than being deposited in the mouth or throat. Common types of spacers include large volume spacers and smaller pocket-sized alternatives.
How Spacers Work to Improve Medication Delivery
When medication is released from an MDI without a Asthma Spacers, much of it impacts the back of the throat and is swallowed rather than being inhaled into the lungs where it’s needed. Spacers work by separating the inhaler from the mouth so the medication has time to mist out and be inhaled. As the patient inhales through the mouthpiece, the mist is drawn steadily into the lungs over 1-2 seconds rather than in a high-velocity bolus. Studies show 60-80% of the medication reaches the lungs with a spacer versus around 10-30% without one.
Proper Spacer Technique Maximizes Effectiveness
For patients to get the full benefits of a spacer, it’s important to use proper inhalation technique. Patients should exhale fully before placing the MDI into the spacer mouthpiece. They then press down on the canister while taking a slow, deep breath over 1-2 seconds. Holding their breath for 10 seconds afterward allows maximum absorption. Rinsing the mouth after each dose also prevents swallowing medication that could cause side effects. With regular practice, young children can usually master the technique by age 5 or 6.
When are Asthma Spacers Recommended for Asthma Patients?
The most common reasons clinicians recommend a spacer include:
– Children under 5 years old – Their small airways and inability to breathe in correctly make spacers vital for proper dosage.
– Severe or poorly controlled asthma – Patients require optimal treatment delivery during exacerbations.
– Coordination problems – Some older patients have difficulty coordinating actuation and inhalation without a spacer.
– To reduce inhaler side effects – Spacers reduce oral deposition and therefore lower risks of oral thrush and taste issues.
– Using high doses of medication – Higher dosages warrant improved lung deposition to achieve therapeutic levels safely.
– Device preference – Some patients simply find spacers less stressful or easier to use than traditional MDIs.
Types of Asthma Spacers and Key Features
Large Volume Spacers
Available in prescription and over-the-counter models, these spacers hold 100-200mL of air to allow full dispersion of medication mist. Features may include dose counter, integrated mouthpiece for children, and removable/washable components. Popular models include Aerochamber Plus and Volumatic.
Small Volume Spacers
Compact personal Asthma spacers like Inspirease hold only 15-30mL but pack easily. Many feature one-press actuation that sprays medication after a single breath. They benefit patients who find large spacers inconvenient.
Bi-directional Spacers
Designed for older children and adults, these spacers allow inhalation or exhalation through the same chamber. Exhaling into the device clears it of residual medication for the next breath. Ideal for coordination or those who tire from standard technique.
Customizing Asthma Spacers Selection
When selecting a Asthma spacer, doctors consider a patient’s age, ability, lifestyle, medication needs and personal preferences. Demonstrating proper use technique helps maximize effectiveness. Replacements are generally needed every 6-12 months depending on cleaning frequency and material integrity.
Studies Supporting Spacer Effectiveness in Asthma Management
Decades of clinical evidence proves VHCs significantly improve MDI medication delivery to the lungs. Some notable findings include:
– A 2018 meta-analysis of 20 studies found spacers increased lung deposition 2-3 fold versus no spacer.
– A 2010 review found lung deposition improved from 10-30% without a spacer to 60-80% when one was used properly.
– A 2005 study measured salbutamol levels in children’s lungs pre/post-spacer, showing a 7-fold higher median dose reached the target site.
With such clear data, asthma treatment guidelines universally recommend spacer use for appropriate patients. Proper technique training reinforces compliance needed to experience clinical benefits like fewer symptoms, better lung function readings, and reduced exacerbations.
Proper Cleaning Preserves Spacer Effectiveness
To keep spacers hygienic and functioning optimally between replacements, patients should clean them:
– Once a week if used daily
– After 2-3 uses if used intermittently
– Whenever visible moisture or debris appears
Gently washing spacer parts with mild soap and water, rinsing thoroughly and air drying ensures no residue builds up. Dishwashers may also be used on durable pieces. Avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade plastic over time. Regular cleaning stops bacterial/fungal growth and obstruction of the medication mist pathway.
When prescribed and utilized correctly, asthma spacers deliver significant clinical advantages versus metered-dose inhalers alone. By dispersing medication more efficiently into the lungs, they maximize absorption of life-saving asthma medications. With proper selection, technique training and cleaning habits, spacers provide an invaluable treatment option for many patients with this common condition.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public Source, Desk Research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.
About Author - Ravina Pandya
Ravina Pandya,a content writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemicals and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. LinkedIn Profile
