In an attempt to maximize drug delivery to the lungs, a variety of inhaler devices have been developed.
In a recent review of inhaler devices by Virchow et al (2008), device characteristics were compared.
Pharmaceutical companies offer an increasing number of inhaler devices, whether or not together with new substances, for maintenance treatment of patients with COPD or asthma.
There are no other studies, to our knowledge, evaluating the switching of inhaler devices without a consultation.
Last year, the company recalled millions of inhaler devices after consumer groups and people with asthma complained that some inhalers did not contain the drug they needed.
In October 2013, a New Medicines Service (NMS) was introduced in community pharmacies in Belgium to support asthma patients who are novice users of inhaler devices with corticosteroids.
The science and technology of inhaler devices, technologies, materials, and particles systems are covered.
Strategies for effective use of inhaler devices.
HCPs in Model 1, 2 and 3 received a resource pack containing: placebo devices (Turbuhaler®, Accuhaler®, pressurised Metered Dose Inhaler® (and Spacer), DVD "Correct Use of Inhaler Devices", inhaler technique checklist in various formats, participant manual, patient recruitment envelopes (containing Patient ID Card, Patient Information and Consent Forms and Patient Questionnaires).
Our objective was to evaluate impact on asthma control of inhaler device switching without an accompanying consultation in general practice.
