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Inhaler Device Options in a Rapidly Changing World: Addressing Physician and Patient Needs

Gogtay JA.

Respiratory Drug Delivery 2014. Volume 1, 2014: 119-130.

Abstract:

In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of patients using inhalation therapy and it is anticipated that many more will be introduced to this effective and convenient mode of therapy for respiratory diseases in the future. A wide range of inhalation devices, drugs, and combinations provide a complete range of treatment options to the physicians and patients. Cipla alone manufactures and distributes a complete range of inhalation devices including dry powder inhalers (DPIs) (Revolizer), pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs), breath-actuated pMDIs, and nebulizers in India and other emerging markets. The range of medications available with these devices include bronchodilator and inhaled corticosteroid monotherapy and their combinations. Some unique combinations available in the Indian marketplace include the only long-acting beta agonist/inhaled corticosteroid (LABA/ICS) combination as a breath-actuated inhaler, a triple combination LABA, long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), and ICS in a single inhaler, the dual bronchodilator combination of formoterol and tiotropium and the huf-puf kit – which is a prefitted spacer with a mask for very young children. The variety of available products is important since the needs of every patient in terms of optimal therapy and delivery device are different. An ideal inhaler should be easy to use, easy to remember and easy to teach, effective even at low inspiratory flow rate, preferred by all types and age groups of patients. Adapting and evolving with the changing needs of the patient with continuous innovation is im- portant to achieve high quality healthcare.