title: Optimizing the use of metered-dose inhalers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
abstract: The metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is a miracle of modern technology, but its use can be burdened with problems. Although it is a small, multidose, portable, safe, efficient, and cost-effective way to deliver inhaled medications, a majority of patients do not use the MDI correctly. The inability to coordinate actuation with inhalation and poor compliance, with both over- and under-use, are the most common problems. Understanding and dealing with the barriers to effective MDI use are essential to optimal care of patients with obstructive airways disease.
authors.forename: J Z
authors.initials: JZ
authors.lastname: Reardon
authors.forename: R L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Bragdon
mesh_terms: D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D006801:Humans; D008173:Lung Diseases, Obstructive / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009722:Nurse Practitioners; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*