• Anne Tschacher, Cordula Cadus, Sebastian Schildge, Jens Peter Diedrich, Prashant N Chhajed, Anne B Leuppi-Taegtmeyer, and Jörg Daniel Leuppi.
• University Clinic of Medicine, Cantonal Hospital Baselland, Liestal, Switzerland.
• Curr Med Res Opin. 2021 Nov 1; 37 (11): 2019-2033.

ObjectiveThe aims of the survey were to assess first experiences of Swiss COPD patients switching from the disposable to the new reusable Respimat inhaler, and to evaluate physicians´ and patients´ views of the new training material.MethodsPatients with a confirmed diagnosis of COPD using a disposable Respimat inhaler for at least three months were included. Patients´ demographics, COPD stage, current treatment, and comorbidities relevant for the handling of the device were assessed. Further, patients were trained on the reusable Respimat by placebo inhaler, patient brochure, video cards/demo films and SMS reminder service. After at least one cartridge change, patients gave comprehensive feedback on their satisfaction with the reusable Respimat and physicians evaluated the need for re-training.Results235 patients participated in the survey. Of these, 37% suffered from comorbidities restricting the handling of the Respimat. 216 (92%) patients had a better overall satisfaction with the reusable than with the disposable Respimat. Dose counter (86%), monthly preparation (81%) and daily handling (77%) were also assessed as better by most of the patients. In 80% of cases, the user ability was stated as better than for the disposable Respimat. Less than 15% of the patients required further training. Placebo inhaler was the mostly preferred training material by both, physicians (in 86% of the patients) and patients (75%). In patients with comorbidities affecting inhaler handling, overall satisfaction was also better in 86% of the patients.ConclusionThe majority of patients were satisfied with the new reusable Respimat device and proper handling could be attained using the provided training material, even in patients with restricting comorbidities.

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