Abstract: A metering valve (1) is provided for a pressurised container (14) containing a pharmaceutical formulation. The valve has a stem (2) with a central flange (11) and a hollow open end (19) with a side port (20). The stem slides in a body (3) having larger and smaller diameter portions, and being closed off by a seal (4) against which the flange (11) rests in an inoperative position. A second seal is located around the stem on the opposite side of the flange and trapped by a spring (6) which urges the stem into its inoperative position. When the stem is depressed, the inner seal (5) forms a sliding seal with the smaller diameter portion of the body to define a metering chamber (13) filled with the pharmaceutical. Continued depression opens the side hole (20) to allow the contents of the metering chamber to be dispensed.