What Is an Aerochamber Spacer and How to Use It?

If you or your child uses an asthma inhaler, a spacer (also called an aerochamber or valved holding chamber) can make a real difference to how much medicine actually reaches the lungs. It’s a simple, inexpensive device that solves one of the most common inhaler problems: timing. Here’s what it is and how to use one.

What a spacer is and why it helps

A spacer is a hollow chamber that connects between your metered-dose inhaler (the puffer) and your mouth. You spray the inhaler into the chamber, then breathe the medicine in from it.

Why that matters: with an inhaler alone, you have to press and breathe in at exactly the same moment — hard for many people, and especially for children and older adults. Much of the dose can end up hitting the back of the throat instead of the lungs. A spacer holds the puff so you can breathe it in at your own pace, which helps more medicine reach the lungs and reduces side effects like throat irritation. A widely used option is the Rossmax AS175 Aero Spacer (valved holding chamber).

Who benefits most

• Children — often used with a mask sized for their face.
• Older adults or anyone who finds coordinating an inhaler difficult.
• People using steroid inhalers, where a spacer reduces throat side effects.
• Anyone during a flare-up, when steady breathing is harder.

How to use a spacer (general steps)

1. Shake the inhaler and attach it to the spacer.
2. Seal your lips around the mouthpiece (or place the mask over nose and mouth for a child).
3. Press the inhaler once to release one puff into the chamber.
4. Breathe in slowly and deeply, or take several normal breaths (tidal breathing) for children.
5. Wait about 30–60 seconds before a second puff, if prescribed.

Always follow the technique and dose your doctor or the device instructions specify.

Cleaning and care

• Wash as directed (often weekly) in mild soapy water and let it air-dry — don’t rub it dry, which creates static that makes medicine stick to the walls.
• Replace it according to the manufacturer’s guidance or if the valve is damaged.

Spacers are one of several tools for respiratory care; for some patients doctors also use a nebulizer. You can see the current aero spacer price in Pakistan to choose the right size.

Frequently asked questions

What is a spacer used for?

It helps deliver inhaler medicine more effectively to the lungs by letting you breathe it in at your own pace, instead of needing to press and inhale at the same instant.

Do I need a spacer with my inhaler?

Many people — especially children, older adults, and steroid-inhaler users — benefit from one. Ask your doctor whether it suits your inhaler and condition.

How do I clean a spacer?

Wash it as directed (commonly weekly) in mild soapy water and let it air-dry to avoid static. Replace it if the valve is damaged.

How much does an aero spacer cost in Pakistan?

Spacers are affordable. See the current aero spacer price in Pakistan for up-to-date figures.

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Use your inhaler and spacer exactly as prescribed by your doctor.