Category: Medication - BUNCHING

Helping Patients With the Change to H.F.A. Metered Dose Inhalers (MDI)
Teaching Points for administration of the new HFA MDI:

1. HFA inhalers require multiple priming sprays, periodic cleaning of the actuator boot, and longer agitation prior to first use and when unused for a number of days. Refer to the package insert with each individual MDI for specific recommendations.


2. HFA inhalers have substantially less taste. Patients associated the bitter taste of CFC powered MDIs with effectiveness and the relief of symptoms.


3. HFA inhalers create a lower plume velocity, which results in less oral and pharyngeal deposition. Patients associated the more vigorous spray of CFC powered MDIs with relief of symptoms and effectiveness.

Terminology:

1. Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI): A small pressurized metal canister in a plastic actuator that releases a mist of medicine to inhale when pressed.


2. Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC): A fluorocarbon with chlorine; formerly used as a refrigerant and as a propellant.


3. Hydroflouroalkane (HFA): The new alternative propellant created to replace CFCs, and the standard for MDIs starting in 2009.