INHALER TECHNIQUE MAINTENANCE IN PATIENTS WITH UNCONTROLLED ASTHMA USING A RELIEVER DIGITAL SYSTEM

Abstract

<h3>Introduction</h3> Poor inhaler technique is commonly observed in patients with asthma and is associated with poor asthma control and increased exacerbation risk. Technique deteriorates rapidly following initial training, and correct technique is seldom maintained. The albuterol Digihaler has an integrated electronic module that records peak inspiratory flow and inhalation volume, both of which reflect patients' inhaler technique. It is part of a Reliever Digital System (RDS) that also includes a mobile application and a web-based provider-facing Dashboard. An exploratory analysis of data from participants using the RDS in CONNECT1 (NCT03890666) evaluated inhaler technique throughout the 12-week study. <h3>Methods</h3> 333 eligible participants (≥13 years old with suboptimal asthma control [Asthma Control Test score <19]) were randomized to the RDS (N=167) or SoC (N=166) for 12 weeks. Exploratory outcomes assessed among participants in the RDS group from baseline to Week 12 included percentages of good inhalation (45 L/min≤peak inspiratory flow [PIF]≤199 L/min) and fair inhalation (30 L/min≤PIF≤44 L/min) (Figure). Other categories assessed were air vent block (PIF≥200 L/min), low/no inhalation (PIF<30 L/min) and exhalation. <h3>Results</h3> The proportion of inhalations from albuterol Digihaler categorized as ‘good'/fair' was consistently high (≥87% of all inhalations/week) throughout the 12-week study. Rates of ‘good' inhalation were maintained from Week 1 (80%) and 2 (89%) through to Week 12 (90%). <h3>Conclusion</h3> Inhaler technique was maintained by participants using the RDS throughout the 12-week study period.