Aptar Pharma, a global leader in drug delivery systems, services, and active packaging solutions, has recenty announced that it has partnered with Lupin to launch India’s first connected device for metered-dose inhalers (MDI) called ADHERO. This unique add-on smart device is designed to help patients with chronic respiratory diseases track their MDI usage and facilitate improved adherence to their prescribed therapy.
Inhalers are the preferred treatment option for managing the rising incidence of chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in India. However, it is estimated that nearly 45% of patients do not adhere to their therapy, including the filling and refilling of prescriptions or maintaining the prescribed medication schedule. This inconsistent adherence adversely impacts clinical outcomes and the patient’s quality-of-life. This new device, ADHERO, is designed to improve patient adherence to therapy.
ADHERO is a Bluetooth-enabled, reusable smart device that attaches to the top of an MDI. With built-in sensors, the device tracks the patient’s daily medication usage and consumption patterns. Patients can access this information by connecting their ADHERO device to the ‘MyAdhero’ app on their smartphones. The app is also equipped to send reminders, offer contextual health alerts based on factors like the Air Quality Index at the patient’s current location, and enable visual analytics. Patients can also grant their physician access to their information and medical tracking data through the dashboard portal as well as the app. Aptar Pharma collaborated with Navia Life Care to develop the digital ecosystem for the MyAdhero App, which includes the Patient App, Care Provider App, and the Doctor Portal.
Speaking about the launch, Rajeev Sibal, president – Formulations, Lupin India said, “Lupin lays great emphasis on three aspects of respiratory medicine, namely disease awareness, diagnosis, and adherence. The launch of ADHERO will be a great help to patients using metered dose inhalers as well as for doctors to track adherence and compliance to therapy, thereby improving clinical outcomes and the quality-of-life of patients.”
Kanwal Tikoo, president, Aptar Pharma’s India & Southeast Asia division, commented, “We are pleased to have partnered with Lupin on their ADHERO connected device program in India. With the steady rise in cases of asthma and COPD, this is an important step towards helping to improve adherence and health outcomes.”
Sai Shankar, vice president – Global Digital Healthcare Systems, Aptar Pharma, added, “Aptar Pharma has been building a portfolio of connected devices within the digital medicines ecosystem. We are focused on integrating services across device development and manufacturing, the digital platform experience, and implementation with the healthcare stakeholders. We are excited about the first launch of a connected inhaler program for respiratory diseases in India with Lupin.”
