European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

EVALUATION OF ADHERENCE TO USE OF STEROID METERED DOSE INHALER IN PAEDIATRIC POPULATION

Merlin K. Jacob*, Josna James, Merin Joseph, Sneha Prabha, Unnimaya Premkumar, T. Sivakumar

ABSTRACT

Adherence to therapy is an important factor for better asthma outcome. Poor adherence to metered dose inhaler is a major problem in pediatrics which leads to increased rate of asthma instability and morbidity. The purpose of our study is to evaluate proper handling technique and hygiene while using canisters and to find out different variables that lead to the non-adherence associated with the use of Metered Dose Inhaler. Data was collected through well structured questionnaire on demographic data, proper handling and hygiene while using meter dose inhaler. Most of the patients scored only average compliance with treatment (48.5%). Majority of them were not practicing good hygiene (79.6%).Thus the results obtained clearly shows the ineffective use of inhaled corticosteroids. Education should be given on proper inhalational technique, hygiene and need of regular follow up. Clinical pharmacists should include in the counseling team inorder to improve the patient adherence.

Keywords: Asthma, Metered Dose Inhaler, Adherence.