Inhaler devices

Question 1

Why do we use inhaler medication?

Answer 1

-drugs get to lungs directly
-faster onset of action
-reduced systemic availability so reduced side effects
-smaller dose
-greater efficancy and safety

Question 2

What can be inhaled?

Answer 2

-bronchodilators
-antiinflam drugs
-agents which clear secretions or aid humidification
-pharyngeal anaesthesia
-antimicrobial drugs
-bronchial challenge agents
-gene therapy
-recreational drugs

Question 3

Name some bronchodilator drugs

Answer 3

B2 agonist
muscarinic antagonist/anticholergic

Question 4

Name some anti-inflam drugs

Answer 4

-corticosteroids
-disodium cromoglycerate
-sodium nedrocromil

Question 5

What are metered does inhalers?

Answer 5

-outer case containing drug in metal cansiter

-durg suspension or solution together with HFA (hydroflurocarbon) propellant
-canister rests against a spring loaded valve

-aerosol proppelled into lungs
-each activation delivers a single dose of drug
-80% impacts in mouth and pharynx
-10% delivered to the lungs

Question 6

What is a haleraid inhaler?

Answer 6

-patients with poor strength in hands
-2 sized to fit large and small inhalers
-only fit inhalers with shaped mouthpieces

Question 7

When are dry powder devices used?

Answer 7

-easier to breath in than MDI
-breath activated
-single dose- requires a capsule to be inserted before each dose
-multiple dose devices hold several doses

Question 8

How do you use a single dose DPI- handihaler?

Answer 8

need to insert a capsule each time it is used, need adequate manual dexerity

Question 9

Describe inspiratory flow in regards to MDI and DPD

Answer 9

MDI-slow and deep breath
-insp flow <60l/min

DPD-fast and deep breath
-much higher insp flow needed