DISKUS

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HOW TO USE A DISKUS:

Take the DISKUS out of the box. The "Use by" date is 1 month from date of opening the pouch.
· The DISKUS will be in the closed position when the pouch is opened.
· The dose indicator on the top of the DISKUS tells you how many doses are left (see Figure 1). This number will decrease each time you use the DISKUS. After you have used most of the doses, numbers will appear in red to warn you that there are only a few doses left.

Figure 1
Taking a dose from the DISKUS requires the following 3 simple steps: Open, Click, Inhale.
1. OPEN
Hold the DISKUS in one hand and put the thumb of your other hand on the thumb-grip. Push your thumb away from you as far as it will go until the mouthpiece appears and snaps into position (see Figure 2).

Figure 2
2. CLICK
Hold the DISKUS in a level, flat position with the mouthpiece towards you. Slide the lever away from you as far as it will go until it clicks (see Figure 3). The DISKUS is now ready to use.

Figure 3
3. INHALE
Before inhaling your dose from the DISKUS, breathe out (exhale) fully while holding the DISKUS level and away from your mouth (see Figure 4). Remember, never breathe out into the DISKUS mouthpiece.

Figure 4
Put the mouthpiece to your lips (see Figure 5). Breathe in DEEPLY AND QUICKLY through the DISKUS. Do not breathe in through your nose.

Figure 5
Remove the DISKUS from your mouth. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, or for as long as is comfortable. Breathe out slowly.
Most patients can taste or feel the powder. Do not use another dose from the DISKUS if you do not feel or taste the medicine.
Rinse your mouth with water after breathing-in the medicine. Spit the water out. Do not swallow.(you can brush your teeth instead).
4. Close the DISKUS when you are finished taking a dose so that the DISKUS will be ready for you to take your next dose. Put your thumb on the thumb-grip and slide the thumb-grip back towards you as far as it will go (see Figure 6). The DISKUS will click shut. The lever will automatically return to its original position. The DISKUS is now ready for you to take your next scheduled dose, due in about 12 hours. (Repeat the steps 1 to 4.)

Figure 6
Remember:
· Never breathe into the DISKUS. · Always ready and use the DISKUS in a level, flat position. · Do not use the DISKUS with a spacer device. · After each dose, rinse your mouth with water and spit the water out. Do not swallow. · Never wash the mouthpiece or any part of the DISKUS. Keep it dry. · Always keep the DISKUS in a dry place. · Never take an extra dose, even if you did not taste or feel the medicine.