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Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI)

by Kathleen MacNaughton, R.N.
for About.com

Updated: July 31, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A dry powder inhaler, or DPI for short, is a type of inhaler device for administering asthma medicine. It is similar to a metered dose inhaler, but the medication is in powder form, rather than in liquid form. You inhale a puff of the powder, rather than a mist of liquid.

Source: Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America

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