Poor inhaler technique is common and often unrecognised, and it undermines every inhaled treatment. Ask the patient to show you how they use the device, correct errors, and check again at the next visit. Match the device to what the patient can manage, such as a spacer with a pressurised inhaler for those who cannot coordinate, or a dry-powder inhaler for those who can generate enough inspiratory effort.
Before escalating therapy for poor control, confirm adherence and technique.
- Ask the patient to demonstrate the technique at each visit
- Match the device to the patient's coordination and inspiratory effort
- Use a spacer with a pressurised inhaler where coordination is poor
- Check adherence and technique before stepping up treatment
Why it matters
A drug that does not reach the lungs cannot work, however well it was chosen.
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