Understanding DPIs and the Relevance of Inhaler Resistance

Incorrect inhaler technique can alter drug deposition to the lungs and can lead to poor disease control. It is important that clinicians recognise the importance of inhaler technique; taking into consideration patient preference, inspiratory flow, co-ordination, and device characteristics.^1,2

Inhaler resistance is also an important factor in choosing an appropriate inhaler device, due to the difference in resistance ranges across inhaler types.³

Gráinne d’Ancona outlines the theory behind inhaler resistance to help healthcare professionals to enhance the advice given to patients.

Grainne discusses the comparative resistance range amongst inhaler devices and the relationship between inhaler resistance and inspiratory airflow. She focuses on how drug particles deaggregate, how high resistance devices can create improved dosing consistency and finally, busts some myths on inhaler resistance and the use of DPIs during respiratory exacerbations.

References

1. Kaplan and Price. Can Respir J 2018, 10.1155/2018/9473051

2. Usmani OS. Choosing the right inhaler for your asthma or COPD patient. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2019;15:461-472

3. Capstick TGD, et al. Clin Drug Investig. 2024;44(2):109–114

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• Grainne D'Ancona

  Consultant Pharmacist and Senior Lecturer

  Read biography
  Grainne D'Ancona

  Consultant Pharmacist and Senior Lecturer Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust & Kings College London

  Role and Location
  Gráinne d’Ancona is the consultant pharmacist for respiratory and sleep medicine at Guys and St Thomas NHSFT and clinical lecturer at Kings College London.

  Education
  MSc, MClinRes, IPrescr, FRPharmS

  Research Interests

  Adherence in asthma, applications of FeNO, eosinophilic asthma, severe asthma.

  Memberships

  She was a member of the BTS/SIGN guideline committee for over ten years; contributed to the development of the NICE asthma quality standards, co-wrote the BMJ COPD learning module and was on the RCP National COPD audit programme board. She is a committee member of the UKCPA respiratory committee, co-chaired the SEL Responsible Respiratory Prescribing Committee.