What is PIFR and why consider it in COPD patients?
Peak inspiratory flow rate, or PIFR, is the maximum amount of air that can be inhaled over the time course of 1 deep breath, measured in L/min
The more severe the patient's COPD and the older they are, the lower their PIFR1,2
Why can PIFR be a concern with a dry powder inhaler (DPI) for COPD patients?
DPIs rely on inspiratory flow
Low PIFR may lead to marked reductions in*
Fine particles/emitted dose reaching lungs2-4
Lung deposition5,6
Most DPI devices require a minimum PIFR 30 L/min1,7,8
PIFR > 60 L/min may help to maximize drug delivery1,7,8
*Based on studies designed to measure inspiratory flow rates and drug delivery at different levels of resistance. These studies were not designed to evaluate efficacy or safety.
As with other beta2-agonists, BROVANA can produce paradoxical bronchospasm that might be life-threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs, BROVANA should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy instituted.
BROVANA, like beta2-agonists, can produce a clinically significant cardiovascular effect in some patients as measured by inscreases in pulse rate, blood pressure, and/or other symptoms.
Nebulized therapy may be the right fit
When COPD patients...
Have low PIFR
Have difficulty performing deep breaths needed to use a DPI
BROVANA is not indicated for the treatment of acute episodes of bronchospasm, ie, rescue therapy, and does not replace fast-acting rescue inhalers.
