Using a Diskus® Inhaler

The pediatric asthma experts at Children’s Hospital Colorado may prescribe an inhaled medicine for your child. The medication may come in a device called a Diskus inhaler.

Does my child need a Diskus inhaler?

Asthma is a chronic (long-lasting) condition that requires ongoing treatment as your child grows and develops.

Untreated asthma can cause long-term health problems. Controlling asthma symptoms can help your child avoid trips to the emergency department or urgent care, stay in school and participate in regular activities.

Our team meets with your family to assess your child’s unique triggers and symptoms, make a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. A Diskus inhaler may be an effective option if your child has tried other types of asthma medication without relief.

Asthma specialists at Children’s Colorado will determine if a Diskus inhaler is best for your child.

How does a Diskus inhaler work?

A Diskus inhaler is a hamburger-shaped plastic device that puts a fine, dry powder medication into your child’s lungs. The inhaler will contain either an inhaled steroid or a steroid plus another medicine to relax smooth the muscle around your child’s airways. If taken as prescribed it can help control your child’s asthma.

The medicine in the Diskus inhaler doesn’t work quickly, so your child should not use it during sudden asthma attacks. If your child is having an asthma attack, use a quick-relief inhaler such as albuterol.

You should clean the device once a week to keep it free of germs.

How to use a Diskus inhaler

It’s important for your child to learn how to use the Diskus inhaler correctly so the medicine gets into the airways of the lungs. The inhaler is easy to use, but it takes a bit of practice.

The asthma specialists at Children’s Colorado will teach your child how to use it.

Watch the video or download instructions on how to use a Diskus inhaler (.pdf).

About the Asthma Program at Children’s Colorado

Your family doesn’t have to navigate asthma alone. Turn to the Asthma Program at Children’s Colorado for asthma diagnosis, education and treatment, all tailored to your child’s needs.

Our pediatric asthma experts are part of Children’s Colorado’s Breathing Institute, the nation’s largest program focusing on children’s lung health. The asthma program at Children’s Colorado is accredited by the American Association for Respiratory Care’s Asthma Self-Management Education Program.