How is a dry powder inhaler typically administered?

A dry powder inhaler (DPI) is specifically designed to deliver medication in powder form directly into the lungs. The preferred method of administration is through a forceful and rapid inhalation. This is necessary because the inhaler's mechanism relies on a patient-generated airflow to disperse the powder and carry the medication deep into the lungs.

When a patient inhales quickly and forcefully through the DPI, it creates sufficient airflow to effectively aerosolize the powder within the inhaler, allowing the medication to be properly inhaled. This method ensures that the medication reaches the intended site in the respiratory system for optimal therapeutic effect.

In contrast, gentle inhalation may not create enough airflow to adequately disperse the powder. Exhaling into the inhaler is counterproductive, as it could cause the medication to condense or clump, reducing its effectiveness. Additionally, a nebulizer attachment is not used with dry powder inhalers, as nebulizers function by creating a mist of liquid medication rather than delivering powdered medication.