Demographic and asthma-related characteristics of asthmatics using pressurized metered dose inhalers and dry powder inhalers

<bold>Background:</bold> Asthma controller medications can be delivered via pressurized Metered Dose Inhaler (pMDI) or Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI) devices. <bold>Objective:</bold> This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of exacerbations and satisfaction rate with device use in asthmatics using pMDIs or DPIs. <bold>Methods:</bold> A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted in adults who used pMDIs or DPIs for asthma treatment if they complied with their treatments and if they applied treatment with correct inhaler technique. Demographic and asthma-related characteristics of the subjects and data regarding device satisfaction were collected through a face-to-face interview in the outpatient clinic. Rates of pMDI and DPI users and the data were compared between the two groups. <bold>Results:</bold> The study included 338 patients (mean age: 48.6±14.5 years, 253 (74.9%) women). Among participants, 96 (28.4%) were using pMDI and 242 (71.6%) were using DPI. The age of patients using pMDI were significantly lower compared to DPI users. Rate of device satisfaction, number of asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations due to exacerbations were not significantly different between the groups. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> This multicenter study conducted without the support of any pharmaceutical company provides real-life data on asthma patients who comply with treatment and have the correct inhaler technique. More asthmatics use DPIs, however pMDIs are especially preferred in younger asthmatic patients. No significant difference in terms of device satisfaction and clinical outcomes of asthma was observed between pMDI and DPI users.