Inhaler Devices for Delivery of LABA/LAMA Fixed-Dose Combinations in Patients with COPD

Anthony D'Urzo*, Kenneth R Chapman, James F Donohue, Peter Kardos, M Reza Maleki-Yazdi, David Price

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)
5 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Inhaled fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) of a long-acting β-agonist (LABA) and a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) have become the cornerstone for the maintenance treatment of symptomatic COPD patients. In this regard, global COPD treatment guidelines have recognized the importance of inhaler devices as integral contributors to the effectiveness of LABA/LAMA FDCs and recommend regular assessment of inhaler device use by the patients in order to improve long-term clinical outcomes. Optimal disease control is also highly dependent upon patient preferences and adherence to inhaler devices. This review objectively examines and compares the major inhaler devices used to deliver different LABA/LAMA FDCs, discusses the inhaler device characteristics that determine drug deposition in the airways, real-life preference for inhaler devices, and handling of inhaler devices that impact the results of the long-term management of COPD. The introduction of new LABA/LAMA FDCs, new inhaler devices, and more clinical studies have created confusion among physicians in choosing the optimal inhaled therapy for COPD patients; in this context, this review attempts to provide an evidence-based framework for informed decision-making with a particular focus on the inhaler devices.Funding. The preparation of this manuscript was funded by Novartis Pharma AG.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)23-41
Number of pages19
JournalPulmonary Therapy
Volume5
Early online date13 Mar 2019
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019

Bibliographical note

Published 13th March 2019. Issue Date June 2019.

Funding. The preparation of this manuscript was funded by Novartis Pharma AG. No funding or sponsorship was recieved for the publication of this article.

Medical Writing and Editorial Assistance
The authors thank David Prefontaine, PhD and Rahul Lad, PhD (Novartis), and Praveen Kaul, PhD for providing medical writing and editorial support, which was funded by Novartis Pharma AG in accordance with Good Publication Practice (GPP3) guidelines.

Keywords

  • Bronchodilation
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Combination bronchodilator agents
  • Inhalers
  • LABA
  • LAMA
  • Pharmacotherapy

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