Efficacy and safety of a novel beclomethasone dipropionate dry powder inhaler (Clickhaler (R)) for the treatment of adult asthma

A randomized, double-blind, double-dummy protocol was used to compare the s afety and efficacy of beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) delivered by a nove l dry powder inhaler (DPI, Clickhaler(R)) or by a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (MDI) plus spacer. There was a four-week run-in period, completed b y 240 adult patients, who received BDP via an MDI. Patients with stable ast hma were then randomized into a 12-week treatment period and received BDP ( less than or equal to 2 mg/day via DPI or MDI). There were no significant d ifferences in morning: peak expiratory flow (PEF) (primary endpoint), eveni ng PEF, overall daytime or nighttime symptom scores, or lung function param eters (forced expiratory volume in 1 sec, forced vital capacity) between DP I and MDI. The safety profiles were similar and patient acceptability for C lickhaler was high. In conclusion, BDP administered via Clickhaler was foun d to be clinically equivalent to an optimally used MDI. Patients with stabl e asthma currently receiving BDP via MDI may be effectively switched to tre atment via Clickhaler DPI.