Survey of pulmonologists regarding inhalational devices yields mixed results

In contrast, nebulizers deliver medication during a full 2-3 minutes of tidal breathing. “That’s why nebulizers work better for patients, because they have more of an opportunity to get the medication,” Dr. Mannino maintained. “Once we get to the point where we actually can figure out how to get nebulized therapy in a truly easily transportable form – and I think there is some technology that is being developed – ultimately, what I’d love to see is a nebulizer that is truly the size of a little metered-dose inhaler. That will then be the game changer, I think.”

The online survey was designed by a steering committee of ATS clinicians and scientists and was conducted by Harris Poll during January 2016. Pulmonologists and fellows with an interest in COPD from the ATS membership roster who had attended recent conferences were invited to participate.

Dr. Braman disclosed that he had no relevant conflicts of interest. The study was sponsored by Sunovion Pharmaceuticals, and the survey data were provided by Harris Poll.