New inhaler with built-in dose counter helps judge asthma treatment plan

The first metered dose inhaler (MDI) with built-in dose counter technology is now available in the U.S. Ventolin HFA, an albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, is a rescue inhaler intended to treat sudden asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. In a recent study, 74% of MDI users did not know how many doses they had left in their meter, and 1 out of 4 said that he or she had upon occasion found an empty MDI when medication was needed. The new inhaler enables users to check how many doses remain of their rescue medication and helps them keep closer track of their albuterol use. Using a rescue medication more than twice a week suggests that asthma isn’t being controlled—a situation that could lead to increased symptoms and emergency room visits. Changes in treatment may need to be made. (Research Triangle Park, North Carolina)