Impact of community pharmacists in COPD management: Inhalation technique and medication adherence

Abstract

SummaryBackground: Inhalation technique and medication adherence are highly important for the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) since they are essential pre-requisites for achieving full therapeutic effect in patients. Community pharmacists are in the best position to deliver services in these two areas.

A quantitative evaluation of adherence and inhalation technique among respiratory patients: An observational study using an electronic inhaler assessment device

“…[3][4][5][6][7][8][9] Inhalation therapy is of paramount importance in the treatment of respiratory conditions. 3,4,[14][15][16][17][18][19] Regarding IT, evidence in the literature suggests that 50%-100% of patients perform errors while using their inhalers. 3,4,[14][15][16][17][18][19] Regarding IT, evidence in the literature suggests that 50%-100% of patients perform errors while using their inhalers.…”

“…3,6,[10][11][12][13] However, problems related to poor adherence and inhaler technique (IT) among respiratory patients are widely and historically reported in the literature and still represent a challenge for healthcare professionals (HCPs) and healthcare systems to date. 3,4,[14][15][16][17][18][19] Regarding IT, evidence in the literature suggests that 50%-100% of patients perform errors while using their inhalers. 18,20,21 Furthermore, the literature suggests that deterioration in technique can occur as early as 1 month after receiving education about IT.…”

Assessment of symptom burden and adherence to respiratory medications in individuals self-reporting a diagnosis of COPD within a community pharmacy setting

“…In view of the low adherence observed in this study, individuals in Missouri might benefit from pharmacist interventions previously found to improve adherence, such as guidance on inhaler usage and technique, close monitoring of markers of poor adherence (missed appointments or prescription refills), provision of individualized patient action plans, discussion of issues relating to adherence, and education on its importance. 22,23 The observations in this study highlight several other issues with which community pharmacists could assist: relatively high rates of smoking, obesity, and anxiety and depression. In addition to COPD clinics, community pharmacists might consider interventions related to these potential contributors to low adherence and high symptom burden in COPD.…”

“…The results may provide useful information for development of pharmacist interventions to improve adherence and reduce COPD symptom burden; such interventions have previously demonstrated improved outcomes in patients with respiratory diseases. 22,23…”

<p>Exploring Patient’s Perspectives and Experiences After Start with Inhalation Maintenance Therapy: A Qualitative Theory-Based Study</p>

“…[5][6][7][8] However, patient adherence to ICS is shown to be generally poor, [9][10][11][12] and many patients experience problems in achieving and maintaining the correct inhaler device technique. 5,6,[13][14][15] Patient support programs, such as medication management and counseling, have the potential to improve patient's disease control and medication adherence. 16,17 A previous pharmacist intervention study has shown a positive impact on patients' knowledge about asthma and medication.…”