Before using an MDI, how close should it be held to the mouth?

Holding the metered-dose inhaler (MDI) 1-2 inches away from the mouth is the recommended distance for effective medication delivery. This positioning allows the aerosolized medication to disperse properly and reach the respiratory system without excessive obstruction from the mouth. When the inhaler is too close, such as directly against the lips, it may result in a high concentration of medication in a small area rather than facilitating even distribution in the airways. Similarly, holding the inhaler too far away, such as 5-6 inches or more, can lead to a significant loss of medication due to the dispersion of the aerosol in the air before it can be inhaled, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment. Therefore, 1-2 inches ensures optimal delivery of the medication to the lungs while minimizing wastage.