Koronis Biomedical Technologies (KBT) proposes to develop an inhaler training system for respiratory educators with the goal of improving patients'use of dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) appropriately. Studies have repeatedly observed that a significant proportion of inhaler users are not using their inhalers correctly. Inhalers deliver medication directly to the lungs and are widely used to treat asthma and COPD. When correctly administered, inhaled medications are highly effective in reducing morbidity and mortality. Correct inhalation technique is critical for he successful use of pMDIs and DPIs. Yet proper inhaler technique is difficult for patients to maintain and compliance has been shown to deteriorate with time. Improper technique results in suboptimal medication delivery and has significant consequences, including increasing emergency room visits and lower quality of life scores. Frequent re-assessment and retraining has been recommended and it has been shown that training needs to be regularly repeated and reinforced.

Public Health Relevance

Koronis Biomedical Technologies Corporation (KBT) proposes to develop a device to teach and confirm optimal technique for using inhalers. The resulting inhaler training device will provide real-time feedback to inhaler users during training educational sessions. Detailed inspiratory waveforms will be recorded and displayed during the training sessions to provide educators technique information that will help them coach patients more effectively.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
1R43HL118847-01A1
Application #
8713788
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-HDM-R (11))
Program Officer
Freemer, Michelle M
Project Start
2014-08-15
Project End
2015-07-31
Budget Start
2014-08-15
Budget End
2015-07-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2014
Total Cost
$224,760
Indirect Cost
Name
Koronis Biomedical Technologies Corporat
Department
Type
DUNS #
140696332
City
Maple Grove
State
MN
Country
United States
Zip Code
55369