Picture of Optihaler asthma inhalerOptiHaler® For Asthmatics

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. Symptoms include recurrent episodes of wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. These episodes are often reversible via treatment with anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., inhaled steroids) and bronchodilators. The key in preventing and controlling an asthmatic attack is optimal management. A spacer device such as an OptiHaler can greatly help asthma sufferers in managing their disease. It is highly recommended for all asthma patients, especially those on inhaled corticosteroids.

An OptiHaler is a spacer that allows consistent drug delivery of metered dose inhaler (MDI) medications into the lungs by encouraging correct MDI technique. It also eliminates problems patients have with timing. It is especially recommended for patients on inhaled corticosteroids because it can reduce the potential for adverse effects (e.g., oral fungal infections). However, patients should still rinse their mouths following inhalation of corticosteroids. OptiHaler is compact, convenient, and portable, and its unique design allows easy use and storage in purses or pockets. Other benefits include:

  • Reduction of bad taste from some medicines
  • Convenient storage of any MDI canister inside the spacer
  • Protective end caps that keep the unit debris-free
  • Dishwasher-safe for easy, effective cleaning
  • Economical
OptiHaler spacer should be available at any pharmacy, and the pharmacy located at the University of Arizona Campus Health Service does provide it. In comparison to other local chain pharmacies, the cost for this device at the pharmacy at Campus Health is a lot more economical and runs about $10.70 per unit. To learn more about OptiHaler, direction for its use, and demonstration, please stop by the pharmacy and ask your pharmacists.

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