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Adapter Aids Inhaler Use

© Floyd Tilton

For many people, an inhaler is a great help in their breathing, but due to other problems, such as arthritis, they are unable to use the inhaler. For some the strength of their hands is too weak to push the canister. For some gross manual dexterity does not allow them to hold the inhaler. For others, the full dose of medication is not delivered because the patient's finger slips off of the canister and only a partial dose is administered.

Now there is help for the COPD patient with the above types of difficulties. For users of Atrovent MDI or Combivent IA, a new adapter has been developed for their canisters to help eliminate these problems. According to Dr. Manfred Haehl, a spokesman for Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., the manufacturer of Atrovent and Combivent, many people are not getting the proper dosage of medication due to inability to properly use the aerosol.

Called the MDI Ease, the new adapter looks like a hand pump and fits easily in the hand. The canister, which slides into the adapter, is therefore easier to use and controls the dosage amount much better for these patients than the traditional aerosol inhaler. Available from a physician, this adapter works with the traditional Metered Dose Inhaler and can be requested at the time the prescription is filled for your inhaler.

Combivent is used for those who use two different single medication inhalers or for those who use either ipratropium bromide or albuterol sulfate alone. Research has found that the combination of ingredients actually improves breathing over the use of a single medication, since both ingredients work differently. Now with the new adapter, their effectiveness should increase for some patients.

Atrovent, (ipratropium bromide) is another inhaled compound which works with the adapter. It does not have the same effects as Combivent, but instead works as a long term treatment, rather than a short term. Again, the new adapter will work on this medication and allows for better control of this medication as well.

Unfortunately, other companies have not developed these adapters to fit their brands of inhalers, and the ones developed by Boehringer Ingelheim do not fit other brands. It is important to remember that the adapter is brand specific and should not be used or modified to fit other products. If you have questions on these adapters, their use or other considerations, consult your physician or pharmacist for information. Their knowledge could help you have better control of your medications and gain the maximum benefit from them. It is good to see that companies are working to make administration easier for patients who have had problems in the past.

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