Related Experiment Videos
Sodium cromoglycate via inhaler and Autohaler
1Clinical Allergy Research Unit, St. Mary's Hospital, Newport, Isle of Wight, U.K.
Respiratory Medicine
|May 1, 1993
Summary
The Autohaler and metered dose inhaler (MDI) showed similar asthma control in children. However, patients and clinicians preferred the Autohaler for ease of use and coordination, potentially improving compliance.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacy
Background:
- Asthma management in children requires effective medication delivery.
- Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) are common but can be challenging to use correctly.
- Breath-actuated inhalers (Autohalers) offer an alternative delivery method.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and usability of sodium cromoglycate delivered via MDI versus Autohaler in children with asthma.
- To assess patient and clinician perceptions of the two inhaler devices.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, controlled, crossover study involving 181 children with asthma.
- Comparison of pulmonary function tests (FEV1, FVC, PFER), symptom scores, and bronchodilator use.
- Evaluation of patient and clinician opinions on device effectiveness, ease of use, and coordination.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in pulmonary function or symptom scores between MDI and Autohaler.
- Significantly higher patient and clinician ratings for Autohaler effectiveness (P < 0.01).
- Autohaler rated significantly easier to use and better for actuation-inhalation coordination (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- The Autohaler demonstrates comparable efficacy to the MDI for delivering sodium cromoglycate in pediatric asthma.
- The Autohaler offers significant advantages in ease of use and coordination, potentially enhancing patient compliance.