Aseptika launches the PUFFClicker3, a universal smart inhaler dose tracker, with an inhaler dose tracker that is compatible with both pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDI) and dry powder inhalers (DPI) at Med-Tech Innovation Expo.
Yau Ming Low Shutterstock
The PUFFClicker3 supports 101 SNOMED-coded inhalers for both pMDI and DPIs, making the switching to a new type of inhaler a simple process. It provides in-built graphical instructions on how to use each inhaler it supports. The innovative PUFFClicker3 smart inhaler was developed to improve inhaler adherence, for patients of all ages and for all respiratory conditions that require treatment with the use of inhalers.
Adherence to inhaler medications prescribed for chronic respiratory conditions is widely acknowledged to be poor, with an estimated half of patients not following their medication regimen as directed. Studies suggest that approximately 75% adherence to inhaled medication is necessary to control symptoms and reduce the risk of exacerbations. Inhaler adherence poses the primary challenge in managing respiratory conditions across all age groups, from children and young people (CYP) aged 6-18 years with poorly controlled asthma to adults with COPD, asthma and other respiratory ailments. There exists a direct correlation between medication adherence and improved outcomes, emphasising the critical importance of consistently taking inhaler medication as prescribed, particularly in preventing further asthma attacks in children and young people, COPD exacerbations, Cystic Fibrosis and other respiratory conditions.
Overcoming several technical challenges shaped the development of the PUFFClicker. One significant obstacle was the difficulty patients encountered when pairing devices via bluetooth to a smartphone. To address this, we removed the necessity for smartphones to transmit data from the device to healthcare staff and parents/carers. Another factor influencing the design is the increasing number of schools banning smartphones for younger children. Consequently, the PUFFClicker3 will employ mobile IoT technology to transmit data, enabling parents and carers to receive real-time updates. This feature will alert them when their child or young person is over-using reliever inhalers, whether at school or away from home.
The development of the PUFFClicker3 received backing initially from an Innovate UK Smart Award, facilitating the elimination of smartphone dependency whilst providing patients, parents, carers and healthcare professionals with the advantage of real-time inhaler adherence monitoring data.
As important is how the PUFFClicker3 reduces health inequities. Its interactive touch screen can show instructions in 16 languages. Removing the need for connection with a smartphone, supporting patients who are digitally hesitant.
Aseptika welcomes visitors to our exhibition stand C37 at the Med-Tech Innovation Expo at the NEC on 5-6th June 2024, to experience the PUFFClicker3 universal inhaler dose tracker firsthand.