Pharmacy Focus: Role of Pharmacists in Proper Inhaler Usage

In this episode of Pharmacy Focus, a podcast by Pharmacy Times®, Jennifer Griffin, PharmD, MS, a clinical pharmacist for Harps Food Stores, Inc, discusses the critical role of pharmacists in counseling patients on proper inhaler usage. Griffin highlights the importance of pharmacists in directing correct inhaler technique, providing comprehensive counseling sessions that directly show patients how to use an inhaler, and ensuring that patients return for follow-up and know that their pharmacist is a trusted resource in the event of any questions or concerns with their inhaler.

Key Takeaways From the Episode

1. Proper Inhaler Technique Is Critical: Many patients make mistakes with inhaler use, such as incorrect breathing technique, not holding their breath after inhalation, or not waiting between puffs. Pharmacists play a key role in demonstrating correct technique and providing step-by-step instructions tailored to each device.
2. Patient-Centered Counseling Improves Outcomes: Effective inhaler education should be tailored to the patient’s age, health literacy, and abilities. Using simple, patient-friendly language and demonstration—plus involving caregivers for pediatric or older patients—helps ensure proper use and adherence.
3. Ongoing Education and Follow-Up Are Essential: Pharmacists should stay updated on new inhalers and guidelines, use resources and continuing education, and review patients’ fill histories to monitor adherence. Comprehensive counseling at the first prescription and follow-up visits supports better asthma and cardiovascular risk management.

About the Guest

Jennifer Griffin, PharmD, MS, serves as a clinical pharmacist for Harps Food Stores, Inc, where she specializes in medical billing, point-of-care testing and treatment workflow, and marketing clinical services. She earned her doctor of pharmacy degree from Harding University College of Pharmacy in Searcy, Arkansas, and holds a bachelor of science in health care administration and a master of science in health promotion from the University of Central Arkansas.