This test measures how much and how quickly you can move air out of your lungs.

This test can take a minimum of 30 minutes.  Some medications can interfere with the test and should not be used before your appointment. You can continue with your medications if you do not think you can go without them. Inform the respiratory therapist that you have taken your medications before starting your test.

If possible, do not take:

• Short-acting bronchodilators (e.g. Airomir, Atrovent, Berotec, or Ventolin) for at least 6 hours prior to the start of your test.

• Long-acting bronchodilators (e.g. Advair, Foradil, Oxeze, Serevent or Symbicort) for at least 18 hours prior to the start of your test.

• Spiriva (Tiotropium) is also a long-acting bronchodilator but should be withheld for 24 hours.

• Also, please refrain from drinking caffeinated beverages prior to your pulmonary function test.

You can continue to take:

Anti-inflammatory medications:
(e.g. Beclovent, Qvar, Vanceril, Bronalide, Pulmicort, Prednisone, Flovent