The Turbuhaler is breath activated, meaning when you inhale, it automatically releases the dry powder medication. If you use it properly, the Turbuhaler can deliver medication deep into your lungs. The Turbuhaler is prescribed to treat both asthma and COPD.
Pulmicort Turbuhaler (black/brown base) contains a corticosteriod medication only and is a used as a maintenance (daily) medication for asthma.
Symbicort Turbuhaler (red base) contains both a corticosteriod (ICS) and a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA). It is used as a maintenance treatment for COPD and asthma.
Oxeze Turbuhaler (green/blue base) contains a LABA bronchodilator and is used as maintenance therapy as an add-on to ICS therapy for asthma.
Bricanyl Turbuhaler (blue base) contains a LABA and is prescribed as a rescue inhaler for those with either asthma or COPD.
This information is meant to help you use your inhaler. If you require more information about the medication itself, please speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Using your Turbuhaler
Unscrew the cover and remove it.
Holding the Turbuhaler upright, turn the coloured wheel one way and back the other way, until it clicks. It's now loaded with a new dose.
Breathe out normally.
Put the mouthpiece between your lips and tilt your head back slightly.
Breathe in deeply and forcefully.
Hold your breath for 10 seconds or as long as you can.
Remove the Turbuhaler from your mouth, and breathe out.
If you need another dose, repeat the steps 3- 5.
If the medicine you are taking contains a corticosteroid, rinse your mouth out and gargle with water after you use it, then spit the water out. This helps prevent side effects like a yeast infection (thrush) in your mouth, and hoarseness in your throat.
Cleaning your Turbuhaler
Clean the mouthpiece two or three times a week, using a dry cloth to wipe away any particles that may have collected on the mouthpiece. Never wash the mouthpiece.
How to tell when your Turbuhaler is empty
The Turbuhaler is empty and should be thrown out when the zero or a red line is in the centre of the dose-counting window.
