hold bronchodilators before PFT studies


Patient Instructions

  1. Arrive on time. You may be asked to reschedule if you are late by 30 minutes or more.
  2. Do not wear tight clothing that makes it difficult for you to take a deep breath.
  3. Do not eat a large meal within 2 hours of the test.
  4. Do not exercise heavily for at least 30 minutes before the test.
  5. Do not drink alcohol for at least 4 hours before the test.
  6. Do not smoke on the day of the test.
  7. If you are scheduled for spirometry pre or post bronchodilation, stop using your bronchodilator according to the following table:
Bronchodilator MedicationTime to Stop
Short-acting bet agonists (albuterol, salbutamol)6 hours
Short-acting anti-cholinergic Ipratropium (Atrovent)12 hours
Long-acting beta agonists (formoterol, salmeterol)24 hours
Ultra long-acting agents (tiotropium, indacaterol, vilanterol)36 hours
Advair12 hours