Evaluation of Correct Use of Dry Powder Inhalers among Asthmatic Patients at a Chest Clinic in Enugu, South East Nigeria

Background: Correct inhaler technique is a fundamental determinant of asthma control, yet errors in dry powder inhaler (DPI) use are widely reported even among long-term users. Poor technique reduces drug deposition to the lung and compromises clinical outcomes. This study evaluated DPI technique among asthmatic patients at a chest clinic in Enugu State. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 160 adult asthma patients receiving DPI therapy at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital. Inhaler technique was assessed by pharmacists using a standardised 8-step checklist. Correlation between technique score, asthma control level, and duration of inhaler use was analysed. Results: Only 31 percent of patients demonstrated adequate overall inhaler technique (at least 7 of 8 steps correct). The most common errors included inadequate exhalation before inhalation (62%), insufficient inhalation force (48%), and absence of breath-holding after inhalation (55%). Asthma control was significantly better in patients with correct technique (p less than 0.01). Conclusion: DPI technique is frequently inadequate among Enugu asthma patients and is directly linked to poor disease control. Pharmacist-led inhalation training at every clinic visit should be institutionalised. Keywords: dry powder inhaler, asthma, inhaler technique, Enugu, asthma control