First Smart Inhaler Launched on the Market

Teva Respiratory has launched the first digital rescue inhaler for patients aged 4 years and older and a companion app, according to the company.

The albuterol sulfate 117 mcg rescue inhaler (ProAir Digihaler Inhalation Powder) is indicated for treating or preventing bronchospasm in those with reversible obstructive airway disease. It is also for the prevention of exercise- induced bronchospasm, according to Teva.

This rescue inhaler is equipped with Bluetooth wireless technology sensors, which connect with a companion mobile app.¹ The patient will use an app to scan a QR code at the top of the inhaler, which will sync the inhaler to the app. A sensor measures a breath actuation and determknes how well a patient inhales, giving them a rating that shows providers how well the patient is using the inhaler.²

The inhaler also takes objective data such as time stamps and peak inspiratory flow. The data is viewable on the mobile app and can be shared with a patient’s health care provider. This can help with condition management and initiate discussion if inhaler technique needs improvement, according to Teva.¹

The albuterol sulfate 117 mcg rescue inhaler was first approved by the FDA in 2019. Pharmacists will need training to learn how to use this inhaler, and can then assist patients with how to set up and use the device, according to Timothy Aungst, PharmD, a member of Teva’s advisory board.²

The wholesale acquisition cost for the albuterol sulfate 117 mcg rescue inhaler is $146.67, however, the actual cost for individual patients and providers is expected to be lower, according to Teva.¹

REFERENCES

• Teva Announces Availability of ProAir^® Digihaler^® (albuterol sulfate 117 mcg) Inhalation Powder for Patients with Asthma and COPD [news release]. Parsippany, NJ: July 13, 2020; BusinessWire. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200713005034/en/Teva-Announces-Availability-ProAir%C2%AE-Digihaler%C2%AE-albuterol-sulfate. Accessed July 13, 2020
• Aungst T. World's First Smart Inhaler is Arriving. Pharmacy Times. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/contributor/timothy-aungst-pharmd/2019/01/worlds-first-smart-inhaler-is-arriving. Published January 22, 2019. Accessed July 13, 2020