AeroChamber Plus Flow-Vu Standard Device with Mouthpiece

Using a pMDI inhaler without a spacer requires precise coordination of pressing the inhaler at exactly the right moment during inhalation — a technique that is significantly harder than it sounds and that most patients, even those who have been using inhalers for years, do not perform correctly every time. When coordination is poor, most of the medication is deposited in the back of the throat rather than reaching the airways where it is needed. A spacer completely removes the timing element — you press the inhaler, medication fills the chamber, and you simply breathe it in at your own pace. Studies consistently show that spacer use increases the proportion of medication reaching the lungs by two to three times compared with unaided pMDI use, improving symptom control without increasing the dose.

The Flow-Vu inspiratory flow indicator is a small flap visible in the mouthpiece of the AeroChamber Plus. When you inhale through the mouthpiece, air movement causes the flap to move, giving you immediate visual confirmation that you are breathing in and that medication is being drawn from the chamber into your lungs. If the flap does not move when you inhale, you may not be creating an adequate seal around the mouthpiece, you may not be inhaling firmly enough, or the device may be damaged. If the flap moves — and you have followed the correct steps — you can be confident that inhalation is occurring. This is particularly valuable for parents monitoring a child's technique, for patients with limited sensation, and for healthcare professionals during technique checks.

Each actuation of a pMDI releases a measured dose of medication into the spacer chamber. If multiple doses are released before a single inhalation, the particles begin to settle on the chamber walls and the medication concentration in the air you subsequently inhale is lower than it would be from a single actuation per breath. Clinical studies on spacer use consistently demonstrate that single actuations per inhalation cycle produce significantly better drug delivery than multiple actuations before a single breath. If you are prescribed two puffs, take the first puff, inhale, wait 30 to 60 seconds, and then take the second puff and inhale — do not release both into the chamber at once.

No. The AeroChamber Plus range includes several versions designed for different age groups and ability levels. The standard device with mouthpiece — this product — is for adults and children who can create an effective seal around a mouthpiece and inhale on instruction. For infants and young children who cannot reliably use a mouthpiece, separate AeroChamber Plus versions with appropriately sized face masks are available. Using the correct device for the patient's age and ability is important — a mouthpiece device used on a young child who cannot seal it correctly will deliver significantly less medication than an age-appropriate mask device. Speak to a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist about the correct AeroChamber Plus version for your child's age and respiratory prescription.

NOT FOUND — please confirm the manufacturer's recommended replacement interval from AeroChamber documentation and update this answer. As a general guideline for spacer devices, replacement every six to twelve months with regular daily use is commonly recommended, as the valve, indicator, and chamber electrostatic properties can change over time in ways that affect medication delivery even when the device appears undamaged. Replace sooner if the chamber is cracked, the valve does not open smoothly on inhalation, the Flow-Vu indicator does not move during inhalation, or the mouthpiece seal is compromised. The cost of replacing a spacer annually is small relative to the cost of the inhaled medication it is delivering — a worn spacer that reduces delivery by even 20 to 30% represents a significant reduction in the clinical benefit of the prescription.

The AeroChamber Plus is compatible with the majority of standard pMDI inhalers used in the UK. However, inhaler mouthpiece dimensions vary slightly between manufacturers and some inhalers may not seat securely in the spacer's back port. Before relying on this spacer for your medication delivery, confirm that your specific inhaler fits securely. Your pharmacist can check compatibility in store. Do not use the AeroChamber Plus with dry powder inhalers (Turbohaler, Accuhaler, Ellipta, Genuair, and similar) or soft mist inhalers (Respimat) — these work differently from pMDIs and are not compatible with valved holding chamber spacers.

Yes. Our pharmacists offer free inhaler technique checks and can demonstrate correct spacer use in store. Poor inhaler technique is one of the most common and correctable reasons for poorly controlled asthma, and a brief technique check can make a significant difference to how effectively your medication works. If you have never had your technique checked, or if your asthma control does not seem as good as expected despite taking your medication, book a free consultation at your nearest Pearl Chemist Group branch. Browse our full respiratory health range online including spacers, peak flow meters, and inhaler accessories.