Investigation of a digital inhaler monitor and smartphone app providing real-time information on inhaler use
This study is exploring a new system for people with asthma that includes a digital monitor for your inhaler and a smartphone app. The aim is to see if this technology can help people use their inhalers more effectively and better control their asthma. Many people with asthma don't use their inhalers exactly as prescribed, which can lead to problems. This study wants to find out if the 'Find Air One System' can make a difference. Researchers will compare people using the smart inhaler system with those getting their usual asthma care. They'll look at how well asthma is controlled and measure people's experiences to see if this technology could be helpful in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Asthma is a common lung condition, and taking your preventative inhaler regularly is really important to keep it under control and avoid asthma attacks. However, it can be easy to forget or not use your inhaler quite right. This can lead to your asthma not being as well-controlled as it could be, meaning more symptoms, time off work or school, or even needing to go to hospital.
This study is looking at a new system called 'Find Air One'. It involves a small digital monitor that attaches to your inhaler and connects to a smartphone app. This system can give you reminders and feedback on how you're using your inhaler. It also shares information with your healthcare team, which might help them provide better advice. The main goal of this study is to see if using this digital inhaler system can lead to better asthma control for people like you.
This is a 'feasibility' study, which means it's a smaller, initial study to work out the best way to do a larger study later on. We want to see how well the digital inhaler monitor works, how easy it is for people with asthma to use, and what effects it might have on their asthma control. We'll be looking carefully at things like the number of asthma attacks and hospital visits to understand the potential benefits.
Key takeaways
- This study investigates a 'smart' inhaler system for asthma.
- It aims to see if app-connected monitors improve asthma control.
- Participants will either use the new system or receive usual care.
- The study lasts one year with a few follow-up appointments.
- It's a feasibility study to plan for a bigger trial in the future.
- Funding for the study comes from the North West Lung Centre Charity.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have been diagnosed with mild to moderate asthma for at least a year. You also need to have been prescribed a steroid inhaler that can work with the 'Find Air' digital monitor.
In the last year, you should have experienced at least one asthma flare-up that required treatment with steroid tablets. It's also important that you don't smoke and don't have any other long-term breathing conditions apart from asthma. The study will also check that your lung function, which can show how clear your airways are, changes over time.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you need oxygen therapy, have very severe asthma, or are already taking part in another medical study involving a new medication. The study team will check all these details to make sure this study is right for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with mild to moderate asthma for at least a year?
- Do you use a steroid inhaler for your asthma?
- Have you needed steroid tablets for an asthma flare-up in the last year?
- Do you not smoke, and do not have other breathing conditions apart from asthma?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be put into one of two groups by chance, like flipping a coin. One group will receive the digital inhaler monitors for their preventative and reliever inhalers, as well as the 'Find Air' smartphone app, in addition to their usual asthma care. The other group will continue with their usual asthma care without the monitors.
We will follow you for one year. During this time, you'll have appointments at 2, 6, and 12 months. At these visits, we'll ask you to fill out questionnaires about your asthma control, how it affects your daily life, and how regularly you use your inhalers. You'll also have some simple breathing tests to check for inflammation in your lungs. If you are in the group using the digital monitors, we'll also review your inhaler usage data.
After the study ends, some participants will be invited for a short chat to share their thoughts and experiences about using the digital monitors. You will continue to use your regular asthma medications as usual throughout the study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Wythenshawe HospitalApproximateManchester, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a 'digital inhaler monitor'?
It's a small device that clips onto your usual inhaler and records when you use it. It connects to a smartphone app.
What is 'asthma control'?
This refers to how well your asthma symptoms are managed. Good control means fewer symptoms, fewer asthma attacks, and less need for reliever inhalers.
Will I have to pay for the monitors or app?
No, if you're in the group that receives them, the monitors and app will be provided to you for the study and you won't have to pay.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it won't affect your regular medical care.
Where is the study taking place?
The study is based at Wythenshawe Hospital in the UK.
How to find out more
Lynn Elsey
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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