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Description
A volumetric spacer is a medical device used in conjunction with metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) to aid in the delivery of aerosolized medication to the lungs.
Its primary use is to improve the effectiveness of inhaler treatments for respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The spacer is part of the drug delivery device category rather than a drug itself.
The general mechanism of action involves holding the aerosol medication released from the inhaler in a chamber, allowing the patient to inhale the medicine more slowly and deeply. This reduces the amount of medication deposited in the mouth and throat and increases the amount reaching the lungs.
Common forms are plastic or metal tubes with a mouthpiece or mask at one end and an attachment for the inhaler at the other.
Dosage instructions depend on the medication used with the spacer and the patient’s prescription. Typically, the patient exhales fully, attaches the inhaler to the spacer, releases a dose into the spacer, and inhales the medication slowly and deeply through the mouthpiece or mask.
Side effects are generally related to the medication being delivered rather than the spacer itself. The spacer helps reduce side effects such as oral thrush by minimizing medication deposition in the mouth. Contraindications are minimal but include inability to use the device properly due to physical or cognitive impairments without assistance.
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