Using a Smart Inhaler to Support Asthma Management in Adolescents With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Correct use of daily medications containing inhaled corticosteroids is key for asthma control, yet children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) face additional barriers to proper inhaler use. Smart inhalers, a novel technology that provides guidance and immediate feedback on inhaler use techniques, have been shown to enhance correct medication administration in the typically developing pediatric population, but their effectiveness has not been evaluated on the pediatric IDD population. This study aims to investigate whether daily application of smart inhalers (1) is feasible and acceptable in the IDD population, (2) improves the rate of correct medication administration, and (3) results in improvement in lung function. This effort aims to promote better asthma management in the IDD population.