Dry-Powder Inhaler Simplifies Asthma Management

A new, patient-friendly dry-powder inhaler (DPI) has been developed for asthma patients who are unable to use metered-dose inhalers (MDIs).

The Easyhaler reliever (containing salbutamol) and the Easyhaler preventers (with budesonide and beclometasone), manufactured by Ranbaxy (Gurgaon, India), are indicated for the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe persistent asthma. Both the salbutamol and budesonide inhalers are suitable for use in children over the age of six. The inhalers were launched in the United Kingdom.

The Easyhaler is especially designed for easy use. It is small, breath-actuated (so no coordination of pressing and inhalation is required), and contains a dose counter so that the user can see how much drug is left. Asthma management is simplified by allowing
doctors to prescribe both salbutamol and budesonide from the same type of DPI for the first time. Consistent dosing can be maintained irrespective of the patient's inhalation technique, since even a shallow intake of breath is enough to activate the inhaler. Easyhaler comes with a protective case to help keep the inhaler clean and prevent bacterial contamination.

"Easyhaler's combination of effective characteristics, which include consistent dosing irrespective of the patient's inhalation technique, make it an 'ideal' inhaler and its acceptance among patients should help to improve patient compliance with their asthma medication,” said Professor Henry Chrystyn, professor of clinical pharmacy at the University of Bradford (UK).




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