Most patients with asthma or COPD do not use their inhalers properly, and most have not had their technique checked or corrected by a health professional.
Incorrect inhaler technique with inhaled corticosteroid-containing treatment increases the risk of severe exacerbations and hospitalisation for people with asthma.
Poor asthma symptom control is often due to incorrect inhaler technique.
Download the PDF document to view the full paper.
National Asthma Council Australia. (2026) Inhaler technique in people with asthma or COPD. National Asthma Council Australia, Melbourne.
Our library of How-to videos includes instructions demonstrating the correct use of various asthma and COPD inhalers. There are also videos showing correct use of allergy nasal sprays.
Please note, this resource is not available for print orders.
Although all care has been taken, this information paper is a general guide only, which is not a substitute for assessment of appropriate courses of treatment on a case-by-case basis. The National Asthma Council Australia expressly disclaims all responsibility (including negligence) for any loss, damage or personal injury resulting from reliance on the information contained herein.
© 2026
