Rapihaler

The Rapihaler is a type of pressurised metered dose inhaler (pMDI). This means the inhaler contains medicine in a canister with a propellant, a type of gas.  

When you press the canister, it releases a “puff” of medicine as a fine mist. 

Because the mist comes out quickly, many people find it easier to use a spacer with a pMDI to help the medicine reach deeper into the lungs. 

Learn how to correctly use a Rapihaler by watching the video or following the steps below. 

Steps for priming the Rapihaler

Before using your inhaler for the first time, you need to prime it. You also need to prime it after cleaning, if you’ve dropped it, or if you haven’t used it for 7 days. The inhaler includes extra puffs for priming. 

1. Shake the inhaler well 4 or 5 times. 

2. Remove the mouthpiece cover. 

3. Point the inhaler away from you. 

4. Press down on the top to release a test puff. 

5. Shake the inhaler again 4 to 5 times. Release a second test spray. 

The first time you use it, the dose counter will show 120 and the inhaler is now ready to use. 

Steps for using the Rapihaler

1. Check the dose counter on the top of the inhaler to make sure it isn’t empty. 

2. Hold the inhaler upright and shake well 4 or 5 times. 

3. Remove the mouthpiece cover by gently squeezing at both sides, then pulling out. 

4. Breathe out gently, away from the inhaler. 

5. Place lips around the mouthpiece without biting and form a good seal. 

6. While taking a slow, steady breath in, press down firmly on the canister to release one puff. 

7. Continue to breathe in slowly and steadily for 4 to 5 seconds. 

8. Take the inhaler out of your mouth and hold breath for 5-10 seconds, or as long as comfortable. 

9. Breathe out gently, away from the inhaler. 

10. If your doctor has told you to take a second puff, wait 30 seconds and repeat steps 2 to 9. 

11. Wipe the mouthpiece with a dry tissue. 

Note: Do not shake the inhaler.

When is the Rapihaler empty?

The inhaler has a dose counter on the top. The pointer points to the number of puffs left. Each time you take a puff it will count down by one. When the pointer is in the yellow area, it is time to get a new inhaler from the pharmacy. The inhaler is empty when the pointer is at zero in the red area. 

How do I clean and store the Rapihaler?

Wipe weekly with a clean, dry tissue. Do not wash any part of the puffer or get it wet. Close the cover when not in use. Keep in a cool dry place below 30⁰C, away from moisture, heat or sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom, near a sink or a window, or in the car. 

Check the expiration date on your medicine. Ask your pharmacist how to safely get rid of any medicine you don’t need. 

If you have any questions about using this inhaler, talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Your inhaler will come with instructions. Always read these instructions for important information on how to use it.