Perspective of Asthma Patients on Inhalation Devices: Scenario from Urban India

Authors: Tushar Ramesh Sahasrabudhe, Atulya Anand

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijirm.12281.1875167832

Keywords: asthma, inhaler device,inhaler device preference,inhaler device maintenance,inhaler technique

Abstract: Background: Inhalation devices are the cornerstone of asthma management, providing targeted drug delivery to the airways with minimal systemic effects. Despite advances in device design and patient education, incorrect inhaler technique and poor device maintenance remain widespread, impacting disease control. Background Inhalation devices are the cornerstone of asthma management, providing targeted drug delivery to the airways with minimal systemic effects. Despite advances in device design and patient education, incorrect inhaler technique and poor device maintenance remain widespread, impacting disease control. Objective To evaluate patient perspectives on inhalation devices, assess inhalation technique, device preferences, and device care practices among asthma patients in an urban Indian setting. Methods An observational study was conducted among 182 adult asthma patients at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Participants who received device training within past one month, were assessed using standardized inhaler technique checklists and Asthma Control Test (ACT). Device preferences and maintenance practices were inquired into. Results Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) were preferred by 69.8% of participants. Elderly patients preferred pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) with spacers. Technique correctness scores were 8.36±1.43 for DPI and 8.08±1.74 for pMDI users out of 10. Not holding breath for adequate time after inhalation and failure to rinse/ gargle remained the most notable and important errors. Patients with lower technique scores showed poorer asthma control (ACT ≤19). 57.14% of participants reported not cleaning their devices at all. Conclusion Despite recent training, significant technique and device care errors occurred, emphasizing the need for repeated training and reinforcement. Proper device maintenance is important to improve adherence and optimize asthma control.