App-based tool to teach and train correct inhaler technique
APP-based Medical Device for Education and Training of Inhalation Technique
This trial will test whether an app helps people aged 16 and older with asthma or COPD use their inhalers correctly over a 6–12 week period compared with standard education.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Karolinska Institutet Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Styrsö, Västra Götaland County and 2 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT07145632 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized, single-blinded, two-arm trial assigns adults with doctor-diagnosed asthma or COPD who use metered dose or dry powder inhalers to either standard inhaler education or an app-based education and training program, with 1:1 allocation and stratification by inhaler type. The primary outcome is the rate of successful inhalation technique at a 6–12 week follow-up visit. Secondary outcomes include feasibility, usability, and safety of the app during the study period. Participants must be able to provide electronic consent and use a smartphone to run the app.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people aged 16 or older with a physician diagnosis of asthma or COPD who use a DPI and/or MDI daily, own a smartphone, and can provide electronic consent (e.g., via BankID).
Not a fit: People without a compatible smartphone or electronic ID, those unable to independently use inhaler devices, or those planning to stop inhaler treatment in the next 6–12 weeks are unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the app could increase correct inhaler use, improving medication delivery to the lungs and potentially reducing symptoms and exacerbations.
How similar studies have performed: Prior small trials and pilot projects of digital or app-based inhaler training have shown promise in improving technique and adherence, but large definitive trials remain limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Subjects, age \>16 years, willing to voluntarily participate in the study and give electronic written informed consent through BankID or similar service, with daily inhalation therapy through DPI and/or MDI for doctor's diagnosed asthma or COPD. Exclusion Criteria: * Age \<16 years, no access to use BankID nor use of smartphone of type Android or iPhone, plan to stop use treatment with DPI and/or MDI the following 6-12 weeks. Medical condition affecting the ability to independently inhale or use DPI or MDI device(s).
Where this trial is running
Styrsö, Västra Götaland County and 2 other locations
- Healthcare centre — Styrsö, Västra Götaland County, Sweden (Recruiting)
- Uppsala University Hospital, Lung and Allergy Department — Uppsala, Sweden (Recruiting)
- Healthcare Centre — Boxholm, Östergötland County, Sweden (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.