How to use your Fostair® pMDI
Read all of the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your inhaler carefully before you start using this medicine because it contains important information for you. This is also available to view or download via the Electronic Medicines Compendium Website (eMC) for both Fostair 100/6 and Fostair 200/6.
First use
Before using the inhaler for the first time or if you have not used the inhaler for 14 days or more, you should test your inhaler to make sure that it is working properly.
- Remove the protective cap from the mouthpiece
- Hold your inhaler upright with the mouthpiece at the bottom
- Direct the mouthpiece away from yourself and firmly depress the canister to release one puff
- Check the dose counter. If you are testing your inhaler for the first time, the counter should read 120
Everyday use
It is important to use the right technique for your inhaler, to help ensure the medicine reaches your lungs and to help manage symptoms.
To use your Fostair pMDI follow the five steps shown here, making sure not to rush yourself.
Step 1 | |
Whenever possible, sit or stand in an upright position when using your inhaler. Remove the protective cap from the mouthpiece and check that the mouthpiece is clean and free from dust, dirt or any foreign objects. | ![]() |
Step 2 | |
Breathe out as far as is comfortable. | ![]() |
Step 3 | |
Hold the inhaler upright as shown and put your lips around the mouthpiece. Do not bite the mouthpiece. | ![]() |
Step 4 | |
Breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth and, just after starting to breathe in, press down on the top of the inhaler to release one puff whilst continuing to breathe in slowly and deeply. | ![]() |
Step 5 | |
Hold your breath for as long as is comfortable and, finally, remove the inhaler from your mouth and breathe out slowly. Do not breathe into the inhaler. | ![]() |
To take a second dose
To take a second dose, keep your inhaler in the upright position for about half a minute, then repeat steps 2 to 5.
IMPORTANT: Do not repeat steps 2 to 5 too quickly. After use, close your inhaler again with the protective cap.
After use
After use, close with the protective cap and check the dose counter. The dose counter should decrease by one with every puff. Make sure you clean your Fostair inhaler every week as described in the patient information leaflet within the pack.
To lower the risk of a fungal infection in the mouth and throat, rinse your mouth or gargle with water, without swallowing, or brush your teeth each time you use your inhaler.
You should get a replacement when the dose counter shows the number ‘20’. Stop using the inhaler when the dose counter shows ‘0’, as any medicine left in the inhaler may not be enough to give you a full puff.
Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help to protect the environment.
Reporting of side effects: If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.