Inhaler preference comparing two alternative dual bronchodilator regimens

Introduction Simplifying inhaled drug delivery and dosing regimen may improve adherence to medication in chronic respiratory diseases. Many treatment combinations are available and inhaler types differ considerably. This study compared preference across three commonly used inhalers: ELLIPTA™, HandiHaler ® and Breezhaler ® . Methods This 3-month, blinded, Phase III study compared umeclidinium/vilanterol 62.5/25mcg, administered via ELLIPTA™ inhaler, with tiotropium 18mcg, administered via HandiHaler ® plus indacaterol 150mcg administered via Breezhaler ® , in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A triple dummy design required patients to use all inhalers, with active treatment or placebo dependent on treatment arm. Inhaler preference assessed number of steps, time to use, and ease of use of each inhaler. 1 Assessments were performed at Day 84 or on early withdrawal, if applicable. Results In patients expressing a preference, at least a ∼three-fold increase in preference was indicated for the ELLIPTA™ inhaler for number of steps, time to use, and ease of use versus Breezhaler ® and HandiHaler ® (Figure). Similar results were seen with both active and placebo treatments. Conclusion More patients preferred the ELLIPTA™ inhaler versus HandiHaler ® or Breezhaler ® . Further studies will determine if this results in improved adherence in the real world. Funded by GSK (DB2116961, NCT02257385) 1 Clark M et al . Value Health 2011;14:A255.