Inhalation Accessory Devices (IADs)
Inhalation accessory devices, or IADs, are sometimes used to improve the function of metered-dose inhalers. The medicines that you inhale can only be effective if they reach the targeted airways. Unfortunately, if your positioning or timing is off, your inhaler may not be effective. Because the dose of medication usually bursts from the inhaler at close to 60 miles per hour, much of the medicine can be lost before it actually gets into your airways.
There are two general types of IADs, holding chambers and spacers. Both holding chambers and spacers extend the mouthpiece of the metered-dose inhaler and direct the medication toward your mouth. This reduces the amount of medication that is released into the air and increases the amount of medication that reaches your lungs. IADs help to deliver medication more effectively to your lungs and can reduce side effects.
There are a variety of IADs available. Your provider can advise you on which type, if any, may work best for you.