Lung patients forced to switch medications too often: Lung Fund

People with lung disease still have to switch inhalers too often, according to the Lung Fund. According to the organization, a survey also showed that people do not always receive an explanation when prescribed a new medication.

The fund had over a thousand lung patients complete a survey in May and June of this year. Of the participants, 69 percent had recently switched medication one or more times, partly due to medication shortages. More than half of them said they did not receive an explanation about how to use the new medication.

Inhaled medication is "vital" for lung patients, according to the fund. Switching medication can cause additional symptoms.

In 2023, various organizations, including general practitioners and pharmacists, agreed to minimize switching medication as much as possible. If switching was necessary, they committed to providing proper guidance, the Lung Fund explained. The fund now wants pharmacists to do more to uphold these agreements.

Medication shortages have been linked to global supply chain disruptions caused by manufacturing delays and increased demand during recent years. These shortages have particularly affected commonly used inhalers, making it difficult for pharmacies to maintain consistent stocks.

To address these issues, the Lung Fund proposes introducing national guidelines for managing inhaler switches, as well as investing in training programs for healthcare professionals to enhance patient counseling. Digital tools such as instructional videos and reminder apps could also support patients during medication changes.