[Epidemiological and treatment characteristics of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on maintenance inhaled therapy between 2011 and 2019 in Hungary]. / A krónikus obstruktív tüdobetegség miatt fenntartó inhalációs kezelésben részesült betegek epidemiológiai és terápiás jellemzoi 2011 és 2019 között Magyarországon.

Introduction: Morbidity and mortality due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are on the rise worldwide. The cornerstone of treatment is maintenance inhaled therapy and the patients' good treatment adherence. Objective: To determine epidemiological and treatment characteristics of patients treated with COPD in Hungary. Methods: Using data from the National Health Insurance Fund, we recruited patients under maintenance inhaled therapy due to COPD between 2011 and 2019 (aged >40 years, who filled in at least one prescription of a maintenance inhaled drug for ICD (International Classification of Diseases) code J44, which was followed by two further prescriptions within 1 year). Data of patients were analysed every year after inclusion. Findings on age, sex, inhaled therapies, and the use of retard oral theophylline were compared among the years (chi2 test). Results: In total, 227,251 patients were included (2011­2019: 81,308­160,241 patients/year). In 2011, most patients were >70 years of age and males, while in 2019, most patients were 60­69 years old and females. The proportion of patients filling in a prescription for mono-bronchodilators or inhaled corticosteroids decreased in the observational period, while dual bronchodilators became available, and their use gradually increased. The adherence to maintenance inhaled therapies was good (>180 days/year) only in approximately half of the population (51.6% in 2019). The number of patients filling in prescriptions for oral theophylline did not decline in the observation period (32% in 2019). Discussion: Between 2011 and 2019, the number of COPD patients on maintenance inhaled therapy did not reach that of the registered patients. Adherence to maintenance inhaled treatment is inadequate in a significant portion of patients. The rate of patients taking oral theophylline is high. Conclusion: Improvement of adherence to maintenance inhaled therapies is essential for a better prognosis of COPD in Hungary. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(9): 338­345.

Short-acting ß2-agonist prescriptions in patients with asthma: findings from the South Korean cohort of SABINA III.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Despite short-acting ß2-agonist (SABA) overuse being associated with poor asthma outcomes, data on SABA use in South Korea is scarce. Herein, we describe prescription patterns of SABA and other asthma medications in patients from the South Korean cohort of the SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA) III study. METHODS: This study included patients with asthma aged ≥ 12 years, who had ≥ 3 consultations with the same healthcare provider, and medical records containing data for ≥ 12 months prior to the study visit. Patients were classified by investigator-defined asthma severity (per 2017 Global Initiative for Asthma recommendations) and practice type (primary or specialist care). Data on disease characteristics, asthma treatments, and clinical outcomes in the 12 months before the study visit were collected using electronic case report forms. RESULTS: Data from 476 patients (mean age, 55.4 years; female, 63.0%) were analyzed. Most patients were treated by specialists (83.7%) and had moderate-to-severe asthma (91.0%). Overall, 7.6% of patients were prescribed ≥ 3 SABA canisters (defined as over-prescription). In patients prescribed SABA in addition to maintenance therapy, 47.4% were over-prescribed SABA. Most patients (95.4%) were prescribed a fixed-dose combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting ß2-agonist as maintenance therapy. Although asthma was well-controlled/partly-controlled in 91.6% of patients, 29.6% experienced ≥ 1 severe asthma exacerbation. CONCLUSION: SABA over-prescription was reported in nearly 50% of patients prescribed SABA in addition to maintenance therapy, underscoring the need to align clinical practices with the latest evidence-based recommendations and educate physicians and patients on appropriate SABA use.

Overprescription of short-acting β2 agonists: reflections from the SABINA study in Brazil / Prescrição excessiva de β2-agonistas de curta duração: reflexões a partir do estudo SABINA no Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess prescription patterns for short-acting b2 agonists (SABAs) and other asthma medications in asthma patients treated by specialists and participating in the SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA) study in Brazil. Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study conducted at five sites in different regions of Brazil. The primary endpoints were to record SABA prescriptions and obtain data on over-the-counter (OTC) SABA purchases at the pharmacy. Results: Data on 218 asthma patients were analyzed. Of those 218 patients, 80.3% were prescribed SABAs in addition to their maintenance therapy, with a mean of 11.2 SABA canisters in the previous 12 months. Of those patients, 71.4% were prescribed ≥ 3 canisters and 42.2% were prescribed ≥ 10 canisters. None of the patients were prescribed SABA monotherapy. A total of 14.2% of the patients reported purchasing SABAs OTC at a pharmacy without a prescription. Of those, 48.4% purchased ≥ 3 SABA canisters. A fixed-dose combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting b2 agonist was prescribed to 95.0% of the patients. In the year before the study visit, 45.0% of the patients received at least one course of oral corticosteroid burst treatment. Asthma was well controlled in 43.1% of the patients, partly controlled in 34.9%, and uncontrolled in 22.0%. Patients reported a mean of 1.1 severe asthma exacerbations, with 49.1% experiencing 1 or more severe exacerbations. Conclusions: Overprescription and OTC purchases of SABAs are common in Brazil, possibly leading to the need for courses of oral corticosteroids. The health care community should collaborate to implement evidence-based recommendations and promote health education to improve asthma management in Brazil.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os padrões de prescrição de short-acting b2 agonists (SABAs, b2-agonistas de curta duração) e outros medicamentos para asma em pacientes tratados por especialistas e participantes do estudo SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA) no Brasil. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal observacional realizado em cinco locais em diferentes regiões do Brasil. Os desfechos primários foram registrar as prescrições de SABAs e obter dados a respeito da compra de SABAs sem receita médica na farmácia. Resultados: Foram analisados dados a respeito de 218 pacientes com asma. Dos 218 pacientes, 80,3% receberam prescrição de SABA além da terapia de manutenção, com uma média de 11,2 frascos de SABA nos 12 meses anteriores. Destes, 71,4% receberam prescrição de ≥ 3 frascos e 42,2% receberam prescrição de ≥ 10 frascos. Nenhum dos pacientes recebeu prescrição de monoterapia com SABA. Do total de pacientes, 14,2% relataram que compraram SABAs sem receita médica na farmácia. Destes, 48,4% compraram ≥ 3 frascos de SABA. Foram prescritas doses fixas combinadas de corticosteroide inalatório e b2-agonista de longa duração para 95,0% dos pacientes. No ano anterior à visita do estudo, 45,0% dos pacientes receberam pelo menos um ciclo de tratamento de curta duração com corticosteroide oral. A asma estava bem controlada em 43,1% dos pacientes, parcialmente controlada em 34,9% e não controlada em 22,0%. Os pacientes relataram uma média de 1,1 exacerbações graves da asma, sendo que 49,1% apresentaram uma ou mais exacerbações graves. Conclusões: A prescrição excessiva e a compra de SABAs sem receita médica são comuns no Brasil e possivelmente levam à necessidade de uso de corticosteroides orais. A comunidade de profissionais de saúde deve colaborar para implantar recomendações baseadas em evidências e promover a educação em saúde para melhorar o manejo da asma no Brasil.

Bronchodilator response assessment through impulse oscillometry system and spirometry in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis / Avaliação da resposta broncodilatadora por meio do sistema de oscilometria de impulso e espirometria em crianças e adolescentes com fibrose cística

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the effect of bronchodilator on the respiratory mechanics and pulmonary function of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis. Methods: Cross-sectional study on clinically stable children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis aged from six to 15 years. Participants underwent impulse oscillometry and spirometry evaluations before and 15 minutes after bronchodilator inhalation. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to verify the sample distribution, and the Student's t-test and Wilcoxon test were used to compare the data before and after bronchodilator inhalation. Results: The study included 54 individuals with a mean age of 9.7±2.8 years. The analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in impulse oscillometry and spirometry parameters after bronchodilator inhalation. However, according to the American Thoracic Society (ATS) and European Respiratory Society (ERS) recommendations (2020 and 2021), this improvement was not sufficient to classify it as a bronchodilator response. Conclusions: The use of bronchodilator medication improved respiratory mechanics and pulmonary function parameters of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis; however, most patients did not show bronchodilator response according to ATS/ERS recommendations.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar o efeito do broncodilatador na mecânica respiratória e função pulmonar de crianças e adolescentes com fibrose cística. Métodos: Estudo transversal em crianças e adolescentes com fibrose cística clinicamente estáveis, com idade entre seis e 15 anos. Os participantes realizaram avaliações por meio do sistema de oscilometria de impulso e espirometria antes e 15 minutos depois da inalação de broncodilatador. Foi aplicado o teste Kolmogorov-Smirnov para verificar a distribuição da amostra. Para comparar os dados antes e depois do broncodilatador foram utilizados os testes t de Student e Wilcoxon. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 54 indivíduos com média de idade de 9,7±2,8 anos. Houve melhora estatisticamente significativa nos parâmetros do oscilometria de impulso e espirometria após a inalação com broncodilatador. No entanto, de acordo com recomendações da American Thoracic Society (ATS) e European Respiratory Society (ERS) (2020 and 2021), essa melhora não foi suficiente para classificar como reposta broncodilatadora. Conclusões: O uso de medicamento broncodilatador melhorou a mecânica respiratória e função pulmonar de crianças e adolescentes com fibrose cística, no entanto a maioria da amostra não apresentou resposta ao broncodilatador de acordo com as recomendações da ATS/ERS.

Adherence to Inhalation Devices in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Purpose: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects millions of people around the world. Poor adherence to treatment contributes to increased severity of symptoms, morbidity, and mortality. The objective of this study was to establish the adherence of patients diagnosed with COPD by their devices for inhalation in a group of patients, Colombia. Patients and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of patients treated in the Colombian health system. Adherence to inhalation devices was evaluated with the TAI-10 instrument (Inhaler Adherence Test). A score of 50 points was considered good adherence. Results: A total of 500 patients from 84 cities were identified, with a median age of 79.0 years, and 59.2% were women. A total of 45% had GOLD B COPD, and 56.6% had good adherence. Average adherence was 47.4±5.3 points, and no significant differences were found according to inhalation devices (p=0.949). Training performed by specialist physicians (OR: 1.75; 95% CI: 1.17-2.62), use of an inhaler for less than 1 year (OR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.04-2.43), use of short-acting ß2-adrenergic agonists (OR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.05-2.38) and increased satisfaction with the inhalation device (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.04-1.14) were associated with good adherence, while those from the central region (OR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.36-0.83), who had a COPD evolution time of less than 5 years (OR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.37-0.98) and had diabetes mellitus (OR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.37-0.98) had lower adherence. Conclusion: Adherence to treatment with inhaled bronchodilators and glucocorticoids were not very high, with no significant differences by type of inhalation device. Satisfaction and training by specialists increased adherence.

Uso de inhaladores para la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica en un grupo de pacientes colombianos

Introducción: En Colombia son escasos los datos sobre el uso de los inhaladores en pacientes con EPOC. Objetivo: Describir la técnica de uso de inhaladores de dosis medida y polvo seco en pacientes de un hospital colombiano. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo en pacientes mayores de 40 años con EPOC atendidos en un hospital en La Virginia, Risaralda, Colombia, entre el 1 de septiembre de 2019 al 31 de enero de 2020. La unidad de análisis fueron los pacientes. Se incluyeron variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y lista de chequeo para uso de inhaladores. Se aplicaron frecuencias y proporciones para variables discretas, estadísticas de tendencia central y dispersión para variables continuas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 104 pacientes con edad media de 73,6 ± 10,1 años; 57 eran mujeres (54,8 %). Además, 48 pacientes estaban clasificados como GOLD-D (46,2 %). Igualmente, 89 pacientes manifestaron haber recibido educación sobre el uso de broncodilatadores (85,6 %). Los más frecuentes fueron los inhaladores de dosis medida (DM) en 95 casos (91,3 %), seguido de los de polvo seco unidosis (7,7 %). Así mismo, 37 pacientes que usaron DM sin inhalocámara (35,6 %) no cumplieron los pasos de la lista de chequeo. En el sistema multidosis, el más realizado fue cerrar de manera adecuada el inhalador y el menos ejecutado, expulsar el aire lentamente evitando hacerlo cerca del inhalador (n = 6; 5,7 %). Discusión: Se lograron describir las características de la técnica de uso de los inhaladores en pacientes con EPOC. A pesar de que ningún paciente logró utilizar el inhalador de forma "perfecta", la mayoría han recibido educación por parte de los profesionales de la salud. Conclusión: Un alto porcentaje de pacientes usa inadecuadamente los dispositivos para suministrar los broncodilatadores. Esto puede impactar negativamente en el control de la enfermedad.

Introduction: In Colombia, there is limited data on the use of inhalers in patients with COPD. Objective: The objective was to describe the technique of using metered-dose inhalers and dry powder in patients in a Colombian hospital. Methods: Observational, descriptive study of patients over 40 years of age with COPD, treated in a hospital in La Virginia, Risaralda, Colombia, between September 1st, 2019 and January 31st, 2020. The unit of analysis were patients in consultation. Sociodemographic and clinical variables, and a checklist for use of inhalers were included. Frequencies and proportions were applied for discrete variables, statistics of central tendency and dispersion for continuous variables. Results: A total of 104 patients with an average age of 73.6 ± 10.1 years were included; 57 were women (54.8%). In addition, 48 patients were classified as GOLD-D (46.2%). Similarly, 89 patients reported having received education on the use of bronchodilators (85.6%). The most common were metered-dose (MD) inhalers in 95 cases (91.3%), followed by single-dose dry powder inhalers in eight patients (7.7%). Likewise, 37 patients who used DM without inhalochamber (35.6%) did not comply with the steps of the checklist. In the multidose system, the most performed was to properly close the inhaler and the least performed was to expel the air slowly, avoiding doing so near the inhaler (n=6; 5.7%). Discussion: The characteristics of the technique of using inhalers in patients with COPD were described. Although no patient was able to use the inhaler "perfectly", most have received education from health professionals. Conclusion: A high percentage of patients misuse the devices to deliver bronchodilators. This can negatively impact the control of the disease.

When is LABA/LAMA Better than LAMA in GOLD Group B or D Patients for Reducing Acute Exacerbations of COPD?

Long-acting ß2-agonist (LABA)/long-acting muscarinic-antagonist (LAMA) dual therapy has been found to be more effective than LAMA monotherapy in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, among patients with group B or D COPD, the characteristics of patients for whom LABA/LAMA dual therapy is superior to LAMA monotherapy in minimizing acute exacerbations remain unknown. With data from a prospective COPD cohort, subgroup analyses were conducted to determine whether LABA/LAMA dual therapy was superior to LAMA monotherapy in reducing the rate of acute exacerbations in group B and D COPD patients. Group B and D COPD patients taking LAMA or LABA/LAMA were enrolled according to the 2022 Global initiative for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease guidelines. A total of 737 patients were included in this study: 600 with group B COPD and 137 with group D COPD. Compared with patients taking LAMA monotherapy, those taking LABA/LAMA had a significantly lower incidence of acute exacerbations over 1 year. In the subgroup of patients ≥70 years old, there was a significantly lower risk of severe COPD exacerbations among group B patients taking LABA/LAMA than among those taking LAMA monotherapy (odds ratio [OR], 0.258; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.095-0.703). In contrast, in the subgroup of group D patients with COPD Assessment Test scores ≥25, compared with LAMA monotherapy, LABA/LAMA treatment was associated with lower risk of severe COPD exacerbations (OR, 0.115; 95% CI, 0.018-0.749). The combination of LABA and LAMA was found to be superior to LAMA monotherapy, especially for treating older adults with group B COPD, as well as for group D patients with severe symptoms.

Patterns and Trends in the Use of Medications for COPD Control in a Cohort of 9476 Colombian Patients, 2017-2019.

Purpose: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects approximately 174 million people worldwide. The objective was to determine the trends of COPD medication use in a group of Colombian patients. Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective study on prescription patterns of bronchodilators and other medications used in COPD from a population database with follow-up at 12 and 24 months. Patients older than 18 years of age of any sex with a COPD diagnostic code between 2017 and 2019 were included. Sociodemographic variables, medications, treatment schedules for COPD, comorbidities, comedications, and the specialty of the prescriber were considered. Results: Data from 9476 people with COPD was evaluated. The mean age was 75.9 ± 10.7 years, 50.1% were male, and 86.8% were prescribed by a general practitioner. A total of 57.9% had comorbidities, most often hypertension (44.4%). At the baseline measurement, on average, they received 1.6 medications/patient, mainly short-acting antimuscarinics (3784; 39.9%), followed by short-acting ß-agonists (2997, 31.6%) and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (2239, 23.6%); more than half (5083, 53.6%) received a long-acting bronchodilator. Prescription of triple therapy (antimuscarinic, ß-agonist, and ICS) went from 645 (6.8%) at baseline to 1388 (20.6%) at the 12-month mark. Conclusion: This group of patients with COPD treated in Colombia frequently received short-acting bronchodilators and ICS, but a growing proportion are undergoing controlled therapy with long-acting bronchodilators, a situation that can improve the indicators of morbidity, exacerbations, and hospitalization.

Predictors of success/failure in the control of asthmatic smoking patients under conditions of clinical practice.

BACKGROUND: Tobacco smoking directly affects the airway, where it triggers a very strong local inflammatory response. OBJECTIVE: To determine the predictors of improvement or worsening of asthma control in asthmatic smokers. METHODS: Observational, prospective, multicenter, single cohort study, carried out in the outpatient pulmonology departments with a follow-up period of 6 months. The treatment was adjusted according to the indications of standard clinical practice. RESULTS: 196 patients were included, with a mean age of 54.64 years.39% of the patients were active smokers. Interpreting an Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score of ≤ 0.75 as asthma control, this was achieved in 30.2% of the cases. Patients with greater adherence were more likely to improve their asthma symptoms (p < 0.05), defined as a decrease in ACQ of 0.5 points or more at the final visit, while taking concomitant medication was a negative risk factor for improvement (p < 0.001). An eosinophil value >300 was a predictor for achieving control (p < 0.01). Patients treated with fluticasone propionate/formoterol versus those receiving budesonide/formoterol or beclomethasone/formoterol had a lower ACQ score (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION: Asthmatic patients with active tobacco exposure and a higher number of anti-asthma medications are more likely to have poorer control. Correct adherence to treatment is the main intervention to be performed to achieve the control. An eosinophil count greater than 300 was the main predictor for achieving control. Fluticasone propionate/formoterol FP/FORM was associated with a greater likelihood of improving ACQ score.

Improving emergency department care of infants with acute bronchiolitis by reducing the use of unrecommended drugs: a quality-of-care initiative in a Spanish autonomous community. / Iniciativa de mejora para reducir el uso de fármacos no recomendados en el manejo de lactantes con bronquiolitis aguda en los servicios de urgencias de una comunidad autónoma.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of a quality-of-care improvement program implemented in emergency departments (EDs) in a Spanish autonomous community with the aim of reducing the use of unrecommended drugs when treating infants for acute bronchiolitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Before-after quasi-experimental intervention study. We retrospectively included infants aged 12 months or less who were treated for acute bronchiolitis in 24 Spanish national health system hospital EDs in December during 2 epidemic periods: in 2018, before implementing the program, and in 2019, after implementation. Data collected included epidemiologic information, clinical and care details, and clinical course. The program consisted of providing informative material and training sessions before the epidemic period started. RESULTS: A total of 7717 episodes (4007 in 2018 and 2710 in 2019) were identified. Epidemiologic and clinical characteristics did not differ between the 2 periods. ED use of the following treatments decreased between the 2 periods: salbutamol, from 29.4% (95% CI, 28.8%-30.8%) in 2018 to 10.6% (95% CI, 9.6%-11.6%) in 2019; epinephrine from 6.0% (95% CI, 5.3%-6.8%) to 0.9% (95% CI, 0.7%-1.3%); and hypertonic saline solution fell from 8.2% (95% CI, 7.3%-9.1%) to 2.1% (95% CI, 1.7%-2.6%) (P.001, all comparisons). Prescriptions for salbutamol on discharge fell from 38.7% (95% CI, 36.9%-40.4%) to 10.6% (95% CI, 9.6%-11.6%) (P.001). Admissions and readmissions did not change, and the median time (interquartile range) spent in the ED fell from 81 (44-138) minutes to 66 (37-127) minutes (P.001). CONCLUSION: The quality-of-care improvement initiative was able to decrease the number of unrecommended therapeutic interventions for acute bronchiolitis. However, we identified great variations between EDs, suggesting that training and assessment of impact should continue.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el impacto de una iniciativa de mejora realizada en los servicios de urgencias (SU) de una comunidad autónoma para reducir el uso de fármacos no recomendados en lactantes con bronquiolitis aguda (BA). METODO: Estudio cuasi-experimental analítico del tipo "antes y después de una intervención". Se incluyeron de forma retrospectiva todas las BA en niños # 12 meses atendidas en los SU de 24 hospitales públicos durante el mes de diciembre de dos periodos epidémicos: 2018 (preintervención) y 2019 (postintervención). Se recogieron variables epidemiológicas, clínicas, asistenciales y evolutivas. La intervención consistió en difundir material informativo y realizar actividades formativas previas al periodo epidémico. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 7.717 episodios (2018: 4.007 y 2019: 3.710). No existieron diferencias en las características epidemiológicas y clínicas. El empleo de salbutamol en los SU descendió del 29,4% [intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC 95%): 28,8-30,8] en 2018 al 10,6% (IC 95%: 9,6-11,6) en 2019 (p 0,001), el de adrenalina del 6,0% (IC 95%: 5,3-6,8) al 0,9% (IC 95%: 0,7-1,3) y el de suero salino hipertónico del 8,2% (IC 95%: 7,3-9,1) al 2,1% (IC 95%: 1,7-2,6) (p 0,001). La prescripción al alta de salbutamol se redujo del 38,7% (IC 95%: 36,9-40,4) al 10,6% (IC 95%: 9,6-11,6) (p 0,001). La tasa de ingreso y la tasa de readmisión no cambiaron y la mediana de tiempo de estancia en los SU se redujo 81 minutos [rango intercuartil (RIC) 44-138] a 66 (RIQ: 37-127) (p 0,001). CONCLUSIONES: La iniciativa de mejora ha conseguido disminuir la tasa de intervenciones terapéuticas no indicadas en BA. Sin embargo, existe una gran variabilidad entre los diferentes SU por lo que la estrategia y la medición de su impacto deben mantenerse en el tiempo.

Iniciativa de mejora para reducir el uso de fármacos no recomendados en el manejo de lactantes con bronquiolitis aguda en los servicios de urgencias de una comunidad autónoma / Improving emergency department care of infants with acute bronchiolitis by reducing the use of unrecommended drugs: a quality-of-care initiative in a Spanish autonomous community

Objetivo. Evaluar el impacto de una iniciativa de mejora realizada en los servicios de urgencias (SU) de una comunidad autónoma para reducir el uso de fármacos no recomendados en lactantes con bronquiolitis aguda (BA).Método. Estudio cuasi-experimental analítico del tipo “antes y después de una intervención”. Se incluyeron de forma retrospectiva todas las BA en niños # 12 meses atendidas en los SU de 24 hospitales públicos durante el mes de diciembre de dos periodos epidémicos: 2018 (preintervención) y 2019 (postintervención). Se recogieron variables epidemiológicas, clínicas, asistenciales y evolutivas. La intervención consistió en difundir material informativo y realizar actividades formativas previas al periodo epidémico.Resultados. Se incluyeron 7.717 episodios (2018: 4.007 y 2019: 3.710). No existieron diferencias en las características epidemiológicas y clínicas. El empleo de salbutamol en los SU descendió del 29,4% [intervalo de confianza de 95% (IC 95%): 28,8-30,8] en 2018 al 10,6% (IC 95%: 9,6-11,6) en 2019 (p < 0,001), el de adrenalina del 6,0% (IC 95%: 5,3-6,8) al 0,9% (IC 95%: 0,7-1,3) y el de suero salino hipertónico del 8,2% (IC 95%: 7,3-9,1) al 2,1% (IC 95%: 1,7-2,6) (p < 0,001). La prescripción al alta de salbutamol se redujo del 38,7% (IC 95%: 36,9-40,4) al 10,6% (IC 95%: 9,6-11,6) (p < 0,001). La tasa de ingreso y la tasa de readmisión no cambiaron y la mediana de tiempo de estancia en los SU se redujo 81 minutos [rango intercuartil (RIC) 44-138] a 66 (RIQ: 37-127) (p < 0,001).Conclusiones. La iniciativa de mejora ha conseguido disminuir la tasa de intervenciones terapéuticas no indicadas en BA. Sin embargo, existe una gran variabilidad entre los diferentes SU por lo que la estrategia y la medición de su impacto deben mantenerse en el tiempo. (AU)

Objective. To evaluate the impact of a quality-of-care improvement program implemented in emergency departments (EDs) in a Spanish autonomous community with the aim of reducing the use of unrecommended drugs when treating infants for acute bronchiolitis. Methods. Before-after quasi-experimental intervention study. We retrospectively included infants aged 12 months or less who were treated for acute bronchiolitis in 24 Spanish national health system hospital EDs in December during 2 epidemic periods: in 2018, before implementing the program, and in 2019, after implementation. Data collected included epidemiologic information, clinical and care details, and clinical course. The program consisted of providing informative material and training sessions before the epidemic period started. Results. A total of 7717 episodes (4007 in 2018 and 2710 in 2019) were identified. Epidemiologic and clinical characteristics did not differ between the 2 periods. ED use of the following treatments decreased between the 2 periods: salbutamol, from 29.4% (95% CI, 28.8%-30.8%) in 2018 to 10.6% (95% CI, 9.6%-11.6%) in 2019; epinephrine from 6.0% (95% CI, 5.3%-6.8%) to 0.9% (95% CI, 0.7%-1.3%); and hypertonic saline solution fell from 8.2% (95% CI, 7.3%-9.1%) to 2.1% (95% CI, 1.7%-2.6%) (P<.001, all comparisons). Prescriptions for salbutamol on discharge fell from 38.7% (95% CI, 36.9%-40.4%) to 10.6% (95% CI, 9.6%-11.6%) (P<.001). Admissions and readmissions did not change, and the median time (interquartile range) spent in the ED fell from 81 (44-138) minutes to 66 (37-127) minutes (P<.001). Conclusions. The quality-of-care improvement initiative was able to decrease the number of unrecommended therapeutic interventions for acute bronchiolitis. However, we identified great variations between EDs, suggesting that training and assessment of impact should continue. (AU)

Satisfaction with and Use of Inhalation Devices in Patients with Bronchial Asthma.

Background: Greater patient satisfaction with his or her inhalation device is associated with better adherence to pharmacological therapy and better clinical outcomes, such as improved quality of life, greater asthma control, and fewer exacerbations. The objective of this study was to determine the satisfaction level of a group of patients diagnosed with bronchial asthma concerning their devices for inhalation of bronchodilators and glucocorticoids. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of patients treated in the Colombian health system. Satisfaction with inhalation devices was evaluated with the Feeling of Satisfaction with Inhaler (FSI)-10 questionnaire. A score of ≥44 points indicated high satisfaction. Results: In total, 362 patients from 59 cities were identified, their median age was 55 years, and 74.6% were women. The FSI-10 average score was 44.6; 68.5% of patients showed high satisfaction, especially with pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs), and 63.4% did not use them with an inhalation chamber. Users of pMDIs (odds ratio [OR]: 1.80; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05-3.10) and those who received training by medical specialists (OR: 2.29; 95% CI: 1.33-3.97) had high satisfaction, while patients who were older (40-64 vs. <40 years: OR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.19-0.78 and ≥65 vs. <40 years: OR: 0.35; 95% CI: 0.15-0.81), resided in the Caribbean region (OR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.29-0.81), and had a university education (OR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.32-0.90) had lower satisfaction. Conclusions: The majority of patients with asthma used pMDIs without an inhalation chamber, and their overall satisfaction was higher than that of patients using other inhalation devices. Patients who received special training from medical specialists showed better satisfaction.

Overprescription of short-acting ß2 -agonists among patients with asthma in Saudi Arabia: Results from the SABINA III cohort study.

Despite near-universal health care and timely updates to treatment guidelines in Saudi Arabia, asthma control remains suboptimal, warranting deeper exploration of its management practices. This study describes asthma characteristics and prescription patterns of short-acting ß2 -agonists (SABAs) in the Saudi Arabia cohort of the SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA) III study. Patients with asthma (aged ≥12 years) from seven sites across Saudi Arabia participated in this cross-sectional study. Asthma severity was classified by study investigators, guided by the 2017 Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) recommendations. Of 511 patients enrolled, 502 patients, treated by respiratory medicine specialists, were analyzed (mean [standard deviation] age, 47.5 [14.8] years; female, 68.5%). Most patients had moderate-to-severe asthma (89.6%, GINA treatment steps 3-5), were overweight/obese (78.9%), and received full health care reimbursement (83.4%). Asthma was partially controlled/uncontrolled among 64.3% of patients; 62.3% experienced ≥1 severe asthma exacerbation(s), and 60.6% and 41.2% were prescribed ≥3 (overprescription) and ≥10 SABA canisters, respectively, in the 12 months preceding study initiation. Additionally, 21.9% of patients purchased SABA over the counter (OTC), of whom 66.4% purchased ≥3 SABA canisters. Ninety-seven (88.2%) patients who purchased SABA OTC also received SABA prescriptions, and 80.4% and 56.7% of these were prescribed ≥3 and ≥10 SABA canisters, respectively. Overall, compared with SABINA III, a higher percentage of patients from Saudi Arabia were overprescribed SABA (60.6% vs. 38.0%, respectively) and purchased SABA OTC (21.9% vs. 18.0%, respectively), underscoring the need to align asthma treatment practices with current evidence-based recommendations and regulate SABA OTC sales in Saudi Arabia.

Bronchodilator effect on regional lung function in pediatric viral lower respiratory tract infections.

Objective.Viral lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) are the leading cause for acute admission to the intensive care unit in infants and young children. Nebulized bronchodilators are often used when treating the most severe cases. The aim of this study was to investigate the bronchodilator effect on respiratory mechanics during intensive care with electrical impedance tomography (EIT) and to assess the feasibility of EIT in this context.Approach.We continuously monitored the children with chest EIT for up to 72 h in an observational study design. The treatment decisions were done by clinical assessment, as the clinicians were blinded to the EIT information during data collection. In a retrospective analysis, clinical parameters and regional expiratory time constants determined by EIT were used to assess the effects of bronchodilator administration, especially regarding airway resistance.Main results.We included six children from 11 to 27 months of age requiring intensive care due to viral LRTI and receiving bronchodilator agents. Altogether 131 bronchodilator administrations were identified during EIT monitoring. After validation of the exact timing of events and EIT data quality, 77 administrations were included in the final analysis. Fifty-five bronchodilator events occurred during invasive ventilation and 22 during high-flow nasal cannulae treatment. Only 17% of the bronchodilator administrations resulted in a relevant decrease in calculated expiratory time constants.Significance.Continuous monitoring with EIT might help to optimize the treatment of LRTI in pediatric intensive care units. In particular, EIT-based regional expiratory time constants would allow objective assessment of the effects of bronchodilators and other respiratory therapies.

Oscillatory Mechanics Response to Inhaled Bronchodilators in Very Preterm Infants: A Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVES: To identify short-term repeatability of forced oscillation technique (FOT) measurement of lung function, assess the lung function response to bronchodilators (BDs) by FOT, and prove the concept that only some very preterm infants manifest a change in lung mechanics in response to BD. STUDY DESIGN: We retrospectively analyzed respiratory system resistance and respiratory system reactance measured by FOT (Fabian HFOi). The measurement short-term repeatability was assessed in 43 patients on 60 occasions; BD responsiveness was assessed using a different data set, including 38 measurements in 18 infants. The coefficient of repeatability was calculated as twice the SD of differences between measurements performed 15 minutes apart. We assessed BD responsiveness by measuring respiratory system resistance and respiratory system reactance before and 15 minutes after administering 200 mcg/kg of nebulized salbutamol. A positive response was defined as an improvement in respiratory system resistance or respiratory system reactance greater than the identified coefficient of repeatability. RESULTS: The coefficient of repeatability was 7.5 cmH2O∗s/L (21%) for respiratory system resistance and 6.3 cmH2O∗s/L (21%) for respiratory system reactance. On average, respiratory system resistance did not change significantly following BD administration, though respiratory system reactance increased significantly (from -32.0 [-50.2, -24.4] to -27.9 [-38.1, -22.0] cmH2O∗s/L, P < .001). Changes in respiratory system resistance or respiratory system reactance after BD were greater than the identified coefficient of repeatability in 8 infants (44%) on 13 (34%) occasions. CONCLUSIONS: We identified a threshold to assess BD responsiveness by FOT in preterm infants. We speculate that FOT could be used to assess and personalize treatment with BD.

Decrease in the use of bronchodilators in the management of bronchiolitis after applying improvement initiatives.

INTRODUCTION: In the treatment of patients with acute bronchiolitis there is great variability in clinical practice. Treatments whose efficacy has not been demonstrated are frequently used despite the recommendations contained in the Clinical Practice Guidelines. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A quality improvement strategy is implemented in the care of patients with acute bronchiolitis in the Emergency Department, which is maintained for five years and is periodically updated to be increasingly restrictive regarding the use of bronchodilators. To evaluate the impact of the intervention, a retrospective study of the rates of prescription of bronchodilators in children diagnosed with acute bronchiolitis in the month of December of four epidemic periods (2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018) was carried out. RESULTS: 1767 children are included. There were no differences regarding age, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation or the estimated severity in each of the study seasons. The use of salbutamol in the Emergency Department decreased from 51.2% (95% CI: 46.6-55.8%) in 2012 to 7.8% (95% CI: 5.7%-10.5%) in 2018 (P < .001) and epinephrine prescription rates fell from 12.9% (95% CI: 10.1%-16.3%) to 0.2% (95% CI: 0-1.1%) (P < .001). At the same time, there was a decrease in the median time of attendance in the Emergency Department and in the admission rate without changing the readmission rate in 72 h. CONCLUSIONS: The systematic and continuous deployment over time of actions aimed at reducing the use of salbutamol and epinephrine in the treatment of bronchiolitis, prior to the epidemic period, seems an effective strategy to reduce the use of bronchodilators in the Emergency Department.

Descenso del uso de broncodilatadores en el manejo de la bronquiolitis tras aplicar iniciativas de mejora / Decrease in the use of bronchodilators in the management of bronchiolitis after applying improvement initiatives

Introducción: En el tratamiento de los pacientes con bronquiolitis aguda existe una gran variabilidad de la práctica clínica y con frecuencia se utilizan de forma indiscriminada tratamientos cuya eficacia no está demostrada a pesar de las recomendaciones recogidas en las guías de práctica clínica. Material y métodos: Se implementó una estrategia de mejora de la calidad en la atención a los pacientes con bronquiolitis aguda en el Servicio de Urgencias que se mantuvo durante 5 años y se actualizó periódicamente para ser cada vez más restrictiva respecto al uso de tratamientos broncodilatadores. Para evaluar el impacto de la intervención se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de las tasas de prescripción de broncodilatadores en los niños diagnosticados de bronquiolitis aguda en el mes de diciembre de 4 periodos epidémicos (2012, 2014, 2016 y 2018). Resultados: Se incluyó a 1.767 niños. No existieron diferencias respecto a edad, frecuencia respiratoria, saturación de oxígeno ni gravedad en cada una de las temporadas a estudio. El empleo de salbutamol en Urgencias descendió del 51,2% (IC del 95%: 46,6-55,8%) en 2012 al 7,8% (IC del 95%: 5,7-10,5%) en 2018 (p <0,001) y el de adrenalina del 12,9% (IC del 95%: 10,1-16,3%) al 0,2% (IC del 95%: 0-1,1%) (p <0,001). Se produjo a su vez un descenso en la mediana de tiempo de asistencia en Urgencias y en la tasa de ingreso sin que se modificase la tasa de readmisión en 72 h. Conclusiones: El despliegue sistemático y continuado en el tiempo de acciones dirigidas a la reducción del uso de fármacos en el tratamiento de la bronquiolitis, previo al periodo epidémico, parece una estrategia eficaz para reducir el uso de broncodilatadores en urgencias. (AU)

Introduction: In the treatment of patients with acute bronchiolitis there is great variability in clinical practice. Treatments whose efficacy has not been demonstrated are frequently used despite the recommendations contained in the Clinical Practice Guidelines. Material and methods: A quality improvement strategy is implemented in the care of patients with acute bronchiolitis in the Emergency Department, which is maintained for five years and is periodically updated to be increasingly restrictive regarding the use of bronchodilators. To evaluate the impact of the intervention, a retrospective study of the rates of prescription of bronchodilators in children diagnosed with acute bronchiolitis in the month of December of four epidemic periods (2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018) was carried out. Results: 1767 children are included. There were no differences regarding age, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation or the estimated severity in each of the study seasons. The use of salbutamol in the Emergency Department decreased from 51.2% (95% CI: 46.6%–55.8%) in 2012 to 7.8% (95% CI: 5.7%–10.5%) in 2018 (P<.001) and epinephrine prescription rates fell from 12.9% (95% CI: 10.1%–16.3%) to 0.2% (95% CI: 0–1.1%) (P<.001). At the same time, there was a decrease in the median time of attendance in the Emergency Department and in the admission rate without changing the readmission rate in 72h. Conclusions: The systematic and continuous deployment over time of actions aimed at reducing the use of salbutamol and epinephrine in the treatment of bronchiolitis, prior to the epidemic period, seems an effective strategy to reduce the use of bronchodilators in the Emergency Department. (AU)

Association of Patient and Primary Care Provider Factors with Outpatient COPD Care Quality.

RATIONALE: Large gaps exist between guideline-recommended outpatient chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care and clinical practice. Seeking to design effective interventions, we identified patient and primary care provider (PCP) characteristics associated with receiving evidence-based COPD care. METHODS: We performed an observational study of adults aged ≥ 40 years with clinically diagnosed COPD who received care at 2 University of Washington-affiliated primary care clinics between June 1, 2011, and June 1, 2013. Our primary outcome was the proportion of evidence-based outpatient COPD quality measures received through primary or pulmonary care. Among all patients, we assessed spirometry completion, respiratory symptom identification, smoking status ascertainment, oxygen saturation measurement, and guideline-concordant inhaled therapy prescription. We also determined confirmation of airflow obstruction, oxygen prescription, smoking cessation intervention, and pulmonary rehabilitation referral if eligible. We used multivariable mixed effects linear regression to estimate the association of patient and PCP characteristics with the primary outcome. RESULTS: Among 641 patients, 382 were male (59.6%) with mean age 63.6 (standard deviation [SD] 10.6) years. Most patients currently smoked (N=386, 60.2%). Patients saw 150 unique PCPs during 5.3 (SD 3.2) PCP visits, with 107 completing pulmonary referrals (16.7%). Patients received 67.5% (SD 18.4%) of eligible (median 7 [interquartile range 6-7]) evidence-based quality measures. After adjustment, pulmonary referral was associated with a higher receipt of outpatient quality measures (ß117.7%, 95% confidence interval: 12.6%, 22.7%). Patient demographics, comorbidities, and PCP identity/characteristics were not associated with outpatient care quality. CONCLUSIONS: The quality of outpatient COPD care was suboptimal. Future studies should investigate if engaging pulmonologists in COPD management improves care quality.

Theophylline Intoxication-Like Signs Despite Normal Serum Concentration in an Older Patient.

Theophylline is a bronchodilator with a narrow therapeutic index. Theophylline toxicity can manifest as metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, arrhythmia, and other life-threatening symptoms. A 90-year-old Asian woman with a 10-day history of hyporexia presented to the emergency room with shortness of breath and low SpO2. Diagnostic tests revealed ketosis, metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, and hypercalcemia. Diabetic ketoacidosis and alcoholic ketoacidosis were ruled out based on the patient's history and laboratory parameters. When it was discovered that the patient had been previously prescribed theophylline, theophylline toxicity was suspected, despite a serum concentration of 16.6 µg/mL, which was within the range typically considered safe. She received symptomatic infusion therapy and corrective treatment for electrolyte abnormalities and was discharged 15 days later. Theophylline intoxication can occur even when serum concentrations do not exceed the therapeutic range, and the severity may be higher among older patients.