The study
The retrospective study looked at the preferences of 3,731 patients with asthma and 2,138 patients with COPD and matched information in their electronic records with their preferences for a once-a-day inhaler therapy to control their disease.
The findings
The UK researchers found that half of all patients in each cohort indicated they would prefer a once a day therapy, one-quarter were unsure, and one quarter did not prefer a once-a-day inhaler. Patients with poor adherence and higher concerns about their medication were more likely to prefer a once-a-day controller therapy for their condition.
What does it mean for GPs?
The researchers concluded that the mixed results showed that patient preference should determine what inhaler patients are given: ‘Decisions about therapy should be made in consultation with patients and tailored to their individual needs and preferences.’ The study was sponsored by GSK.
Prim Care Resp J 2013, online 4 March
