Aerochamber Plus Flow-vu Anti-Static

What Is the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu and How Does It Help?

If you or your child uses a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) for asthma or another respiratory condition, you may already know how tricky it can be to get the timing right. Press too early, breathe in too fast — and much of that medication ends up coating your throat rather than reaching your lungs. That is exactly the problem the aerochamber plus flow-vu is designed to solve. This anti-static valved holding chamber attaches to your pMDI and acts as a buffer, giving you more time to inhale the medication at the right pace. Available from our first aid range at Cured Pharmacy, it is a straightforward, clinically supported device used widely across the UK.

The NHS recommends spacer devices for people of all ages who use pMDIs, particularly children and anyone who struggles with inhaler coordination. Using a spacer consistently can make a real difference to how well your medication works day to day.

How Does the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu Work?

The device works by creating a small holding chamber between the inhaler canister and your airway. When you press the inhaler, the aerosol cloud is released into the chamber rather than directly into your mouth. This slows the particles down, reduces their velocity, and allows the larger droplets — which would otherwise stick to the back of your throat — to settle inside the chamber instead. What remains is a finer mist that travels more easily into the lower airways.

• The one-way inhalation valve opens when you breathe in and closes when you breathe out, preventing medication loss.
• The anti-static chamber lining reduces electrostatic charge, which can otherwise cause drug particles to cling to the chamber walls.
• The Flow-Vu inspiratory flow indicator — a small moving disc — gives you visual confirmation that you are inhaling correctly.
• The exhalation valve allows you to breathe out through the mouthpiece without losing the dose held in the chamber.

Who Should Use the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu?

This spacer device is suitable for a wide range of patients. The NHS advises that spacers should be used by all children who require a pMDI, and they are equally beneficial for adults who find inhaler coordination difficult. It is particularly useful if you have been told your inhaler technique needs improvement, or if you notice your symptoms are not as well controlled as they should be.

• Adults and children with asthma using a pMDI
• Infants and toddlers (with the appropriate small-volume chamber and mask attachment)
• People with arthritis or limited hand strength who struggle to coordinate pressing and inhaling simultaneously
• Anyone who has experienced throat irritation or oral thrush from inhaled corticosteroids

If you are managing a respiratory condition alongside other health concerns, it is worth speaking to your pharmacist. You might also find it helpful to explore our allergy and hay fever range if seasonal triggers are contributing to your symptoms.

How Does the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu Compare to Other Spacers?

How Should You Store and Maintain the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu?

Proper care of your spacer is just as important as using it correctly. Store the device at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Avoid leaving it in a car during warm weather. The aerochamber plus flow-vu should be cleaned weekly by soaking in warm soapy water and left to air dry — never rub it dry, as friction creates static that reduces drug delivery efficiency.

Replace the device every 12 months as a general rule, or sooner if you notice any cracking, discolouration, or valve damage. A damaged spacer will not deliver medication reliably. If you are unsure whether your device is still functioning correctly, ask your pharmacist for guidance.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu and What Is It Used For?

The Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu Anti-Static is a valved holding chamber — commonly called a spacer — designed for use with pressurised metered-dose inhalers. It is not a medication itself; it is a medical device that helps you get more of your inhaler medication into your lungs where it is needed. The NHS recommends spacers for all children using pMDIs and for adults who have difficulty with inhaler technique. By holding the aerosol cloud briefly before you inhale, the device reduces the amount of medication that deposits in your mouth and throat, which can lower the risk of local side effects such as oral thrush when using inhaled corticosteroids.

It is used alongside prescribed inhalers for conditions including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It does not replace your inhaler — it works with it.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu?

This is a medical device rather than a drug, so there are no pharmacological contraindications. However, there are important points to be aware of before use:

• Do not use a damaged, cracked, or discoloured spacer — replace it immediately.
• Ensure you select the correct size for the patient's age (small for infants, medium for children, large for adults).
• Do not use the device without the mask attachment for infants who cannot form a seal around the mouthpiece.
• If the Flow-Vu indicator does not move during inhalation, check the device for damage or incorrect assembly.
• Do not share your spacer with another person — this is a personal hygiene device.

There are no known drug interactions, as the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu is a passive device. However, not all pMDI inhalers are compatible with every spacer — check with your pharmacist or GP that your inhaler fits correctly before use.

• Drug interactions: None known — this is a medical device, not a medicinal product.

How Should You Use the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu?

Using the spacer correctly is essential to getting the full benefit of your inhaler medication. Follow these steps each time:

1. Remove the cap from your pMDI inhaler and shake it well for 5 seconds.
2. Insert the inhaler mouthpiece firmly into the back port of the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu.
3. Place the spacer mouthpiece between your teeth and seal your lips around it (or apply the mask over the nose and mouth for infants).
4. Press the inhaler canister down once to release one dose into the chamber.
5. Breathe in slowly and steadily through the mouthpiece — watch the Flow-Vu indicator move to confirm correct inhalation.
6. Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds if you can, then breathe out slowly through the mouthpiece.
7. If a second dose is required, wait 30 seconds and repeat from step 1.

If you are also managing other health conditions and looking for related products, our baby and toddler range includes additional respiratory and health accessories for younger patients.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu?

Because the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu is a medical device and not a drug, it does not cause pharmacological side effects. Any effects you notice are likely related to the inhaler medication being used with it, or to incorrect use of the device itself.

Common effects associated with inhaler use via a spacer:

• Mild taste of medication in the mouth
• Slight throat irritation if the device is not cleaned regularly

Less common concerns:

• Skin irritation around the mouth or nose if a mask is used — ensure the mask fits correctly and clean it after each use
• Reduced drug delivery if the device is not air-dried properly after cleaning, or if it is rubbed dry (creating static)

If you notice that your respiratory symptoms are worsening despite using your inhaler with the spacer, contact your GP. This may indicate that your inhaler technique needs review, or that your prescribed medication requires adjustment. You can also explore our ear, nose and throat range for additional respiratory support products.

How Should You Store the Aerochamber Plus Flow-Vu?

• Store at room temperature — ideally between 15°C and 25°C.
• Keep away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and damp environments.
• Do not store in a car glove compartment during warm weather.
• After cleaning, allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling.
• Keep out of reach of young children when not in use.
• Replace the device every 12 months or sooner if damaged.