Improving Inhaler Techniques in COPD and Asthma Patients through Pharmacist Interventions

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are common chronic respiratory diseases that greatly increase morbidity and death worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income nations. Even with the advent of efficient inhaled treatments, poor disease control is still a significant worry, frequently caused by incorrect inhaler technique and noncompliance with drug regimens. In order to improve inhaler technique and adherence among adult patients with as COPD or asthma, this study sought to evaluate the efficacy of pharmacist-led treatments. The Test of Adherence to Inhalers (TAI), the Functional Assessment over Non-Life-Threatening Conditions (FANLTC) scale, and standardized checklists for dry powder and metered dosage inhalers (MDIs and DPIs) for quality of life were used in the study to assess patient performance. Telemonitoring support, training sessions, and in-person counselling were among the therapies. Pharmacist-led treatments significantly improved inhaler technique & adherence scores, especially for people with COPD. Improved forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and COPD assessment test (CAT) scores were linked to proper device use. Furthermore, errors were more likely to occur in individuals who used multiple inhalers with different approaches. Devices like Diskus and Ellipta® were linked to fewer mistakes than Turbohalers and pMDIs. Clinical outcomes for patients with COPD and asthma are improved when pharmacists provide instruction and monitoring that greatly improves inhaler technique and drug adherence. Regular evaluation and instruction, customized to patient-specific traits including inspiratory flow and cognitive function, are crucial elements of managing chronic respiratory diseases. Pharmacists can maximize treatment results and lessen the overall healthcare burden by being integrated into multidisciplinary care teams.