Begin

Remove the Diskus inhaler from the foil pouch and immediately record today's date on the label.

When you are ready to take a dose, hold the dark-colored portion of the inhaler between your left thumb and index finger.

If you are left handed, you may turn the Diskus over and hold it in your right hand. You may then proceed with rest of the instructions using your left hand.

Put your right thumb in the notch of the light-colored section with your index finger as support in the back.

With your thumb in the notch of the light-colored section, push and slowly turn it until it snaps into position.

Continue to hold the inhaler in a level, horizontal position in your left hand with the oval mouthpiece towards you.

You should see a small round opening at the center of the mouthpiece.

Inside that opening, you will see a small sliding door. It should be closed at this time.

Place your right thumb, on the dark-colored lever on the right edge.

Push the lever back until it stops and clicks.

The sliding door in the mouthpiece is now open and your inhaler is ready to use.

At this point, the Diskus inhaler must remain in a level, horizontal position.

It must not be shaken or tilted in any way or you will spill the powder medication.

If your mouth or throat is dry, take a small drink of water.

Prepare Lungs

Breathe in a comfortable, deep breath and hold your breath for a few seconds.

Continue to hold the inhaler in a level, horizontal position.

Turn your head to one side.

Exhale comfortably to remove most of the air from your lungs.

You must exhale a full breath.

As you exhale, do not breathe out into the mouthpiece.

 Inhaling

Immediately after exhaling, place the Diskus mouthpiece in your mouth and past your front teeth.

Seal your lips on the mouthpiece.

Tilt your head back slightly -- about 45 degrees.

Begin a rapid, steady breath in through your mouth only.

Continue breathing in to completely fill your lungs with air.

The dose of medication is a very fine, dry powder in a small quantity.

You will not feel it in any way as you breathe in.

Exhaling

Remove the inhaler from your mouth.

Hold your breath for about 10 seconds or for as long as you feel comfortable.

This will allow the powder medication to deposit at the site of action in your smaller airways.

Purse your lips as if to whistle and breathe out slowly.

To reduce the potential for throat irritation, take a sip of water.

Swish and gargle to rinse your mouth and throat.

Spit out the rinse water.

Do not swallow the water.

Closing

To close the Diskus inhaler, put your right thumb in the notch of the light colored section.

Slide the notch towards you until it clicks and is just touching the dark colored section.

Once the inhaler is closed, it may be carried in your pocket or purse.