If you have COPD, which includes emphysema or chronic bronchitis, your healthcare provider may prescribe a Respimat inhaler. Respimat inhalers are used to deliver bronchodilator medication that provide either short- or long-term maintenance treatment for COPD. This type of medication helps to control symptoms of COPD by relaxing the muscles around your airways and keeping them open. This treatment can also reduce the likelihood of COPD flare-ups or exacerbations.
Combivent Respimat (orange) contains both a short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA) and a short-acting beta-2-agonist (SABA). It is NOT a rescue inhaler.
Spiriva Respimat (blue) contains a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) only.
Inspiolito Respimat (green) contains both a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and a long-acting beta-2-agonist (LABA).
Respimat may also be prescribed as an add-on to treat asthma. It is not intended to be used as a rescue inhaler for those with either COPD or asthma.
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.
How to assemble and prime the Respimat
The Respimat device comes in two pieces. The inhaler, and a medication cartridge. Before you use it for the first time, it will need to be assembled and primed.
Assembling the Respimat
With the cap closed, press the safety catch to remove the clear base of the inhaler.
Push the narrow end of the cartridge into the inhaler as far as it will go.
Place the inhaler upright on a firm surface and push firmly down on the inhaler to ensure the cartridge has gone all the way in.
Put the clear base back into place.
Priming the Respimat
Hold the inhaler upright with the cap closed. TURN the base in the direction of the arrows on the label until it “clicks”.
Flip the cap open.
Point the inhaler down. Press the dose release button.
Close the cap.
Repeat this 3 more times.
How to use the Respimat
Once you have assembled and primed the Respimat, you are ready to use it.
Hold the inhaler upright with the cap closed.
Turn the clear base a half turn in the direction of arrows until you hear a click.
Flip the cap open.
Breathe out slowly and fully.
Close your lips around the mouthpiece without covering the air vents. Point the inhaler towards the back of throat.
While taking in a slow, deep breath, PRESS the dose release button and continue to breathe in slowly.
Remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds. Breathe out.
Close the cap.
If another dose is required, repeat these steps.
VIDEO: How to use the Respimat
Questions about your lung health? Ask a certified respiratory educator.
