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Optimum use of a spacer device
P W Barry1, C F Robertson, C O'Callaghan
1Department of Child Health, University of Leicester.
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Inhaling nedocromil sodium via a Fisonair spacer requires immediate use after actuation. Delays or multiple actuations significantly reduce the available respirable drug dose.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Nedocromil sodium is an inhaled mast cell stabilizer used for asthma management.
- The Fisonair spacer is a device designed to improve the delivery of inhaled medications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of actuation timing and quantity on nedocromil sodium delivery via the Fisonair spacer.
- To determine optimal usage instructions for maximizing inhaled drug availability.
Main Methods:
- Nedocromil sodium was administered using the Fisonair spacer under controlled conditions.
- Drug delivery was assessed after varying delays post-actuation and with different numbers of actuations.
- The amount of drug in the respirable range was quantified.
Main Results:
- Immediate inhalation after actuation is crucial for optimal drug delivery.
- A 20-second delay reduced the respirable drug amount by 81%.
- Two actuations into the spacer decreased the available drug by 47%.
Conclusions:
- Nedocromil sodium from the Fisonair spacer should be inhaled immediately after actuation.
- Avoid multiple actuations into the spacer to ensure maximum therapeutic efficacy.
- Proper usage of the Fisonair spacer is critical for effective nedocromil sodium delivery.