Pharmacist's role when dispensing pressurized aerosols for asthma

Pharmacists should ensure that patients with asthma know how to use their pressurized aerosol medication, including bronchodilators and steroids. Inappropriate inhalation technique with these agents is common and may result in suboptimal response or therapeutic failure. Instruction by the pharmacist should include demonstration of the inhalation technique as well as the use of verbal and printed information. After demonstrating the use of the inhaler, the pharmacist should observe the patient to verify proper use. Instructions should be reinforced when prescriptions are refilled or if the patient is readmitted to the hospital. For patients who cannot learn proper inhalation technique, extension devices are now available.