How to Use an Asmanex Twisthaler

The Asmanex Twisthaler, an inhaled corticosteroid, can be a very successful preventative treatment for asthma sufferers. Because it works differently than traditional inhalers, however, people who take this medication must be aware of the proper way to use it.

The first step for using an Asmanex Twisthaler is to remove it from its foil pouch. Look for the counter near the bottom; it will show the number of inhalations available, commonly 30 or 60. Twist the cap open. The counter will now show that there is one fewer dose remaining in the Twisthaler. Lift the Twisthaler to your mouth, hold it horizontally, and close your lips firmly around the mouthpiece. Take a fast, deep breath, then remove the Twisthaler and hold your breath for ten seconds. This will insure that the medication reaches your lungs.

Close the cap. (If the mouthpiece is wet, you should wipe it off first.) You should hear a click. Even if you do, double check that the arrow on the cap is lined up with the counter; this will show that the Twisthaler is closed. Throw out your Twisthaler after the counter reaches zero or the medication has expired (45 days after opening).

Because the medication dispensed is a fine powder, not a mist like traditional inhalers, you will not taste or feel anything when you inhale. Therefore, it is especially important to check the counter to ensure that you are getting the proper dose of medication. If you do not fully close the Twisthaler after you use it, the next time you open it the counter will not count down, and you will not receive a new dose of medication. This could interrupt your treatment and prevent the drug from working to its fullest capacity.

Also, because the Twisthaler is a powder and not a liquid, you should not shake the Twisthaler - either before or after you open it - breathe into the Twisthaler, or let it come into contact with liquids.

After you use the Asmanex Twisthaler, you should rinse your mouth out in order to avoid thrush, a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for information about other side effects and drug interactions.

Remember that the Asmanex Twisthaler is a preventative treatment, not a rescue inhaler. Although proper use of the Twisthaler may reduce your instances of asthma attacks and your need for a fast-acting inhaler such as albuterol, you should always keep one on hand just in case.