New device could improve inhaler use
03 August 2005

A new device is available that can help people with asthma to optimise their breathing when they are using dry-powder inhalers.

The hand-held Mag-Flo measures inspiratory flow – the rate at which someone breathes in. This is important for people using dry-powder inhalers (DPIs) as it must be within a certain range to allow the tiny granules to reach the airways effectively.

Breathing into the Mag-Flo's mouthpiece within the correct range lights up an LED sensor; if you inhale too slowly or too quickly, the light will not illuminate.

Currently, healthcare professionals can use another device to test the breathing of people with asthma, in order to decide what sort of inhaler will work best for them, and to make sure that they are using them properly.

The Mag-Flo is the first such device to be used exclusively with DPIs, and as well as being used by health professionals when prescribing treatments, it can also be used as a training device, to help people inhale at the right rate.

'For people with asthma, using an inhaler correctly is essential in ensuring that medicines are effective,' said Dot Russell, an asthma nurse specialist on the Asthma UK Adviceline. 'Anything that helps people to monitor and improve their inhaler technique is a welcome addition to the range of asthma treatments.'

If you are not sure whether you are using your inhalers properly, you should speak to your GP or practice nurse and ask for an asthma review.