Share

Most elderly people cannot use flu inhaler effectively

Randomised controlled study of elderly people's inhaler technique using a dry powder device to deliver zanamivir

Most elderly people cannot use the inhaler device that delivers the anti-influenza drug zanamivir (Relenza). Reporting in this week's BMJ, the researchers suggest that improvements should be made to the inhaler.

Seventy-three patients aged over 65 years, who were unfamiliar with the use of an inhaler, were recruited from seven wards in a large district general hospital. Patients were randomly allocated the Relenza Diskhaler or an alternative device (Turbohaler). Patients were assessed after 15 minutes' tuition and again 24 hours later, using a point scoring system of five aspects of inhaler technique.

After tuition, 50% of patients allocated the Diskhaler were unable to load and prime the device and 65% were unable to do so 24 hours later. In contrast, only two patients were unable to load and prime the Turbohaler after initial review and one after 24 hours.

These findings show that zanamivir treatment for elderly people with influenza is unlikely to be effective unless the delivery system is improved, say the authors. Particular attention should be paid to the loading and priming of the device, they conclude.

Contacts:

Paul Diggory or Valerie Jones, Department of Elderly Care Medicine, Mayday Hospital, Croydon, UK Email: Pdiggory@aol.com
Email: Valerie.Jones@mhc-tr.sthames.nhs.uk

Share

AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.