Drug administration by inhalation in children

There are many and varied devices currently approved for the administration of inhaled treatments for use in different parts of the world. Well-developed national and local guidelines and training programs for health professionals are important in ensuring that patients are prescribed the best available devices and formulations for their age and disease condition, as well as being trained adequately in their optimal use. Despite training, surveys have shown diverging practices between health care centers for using and testing efficacy of inhaled treatments. This demonstrates the confusion that arises due to the lack of consistency concerning advice from trained therapists and prescribers about the use of devices to administer inhaled treatments. This review aims to provide a summary of current inhalation devices, with advantages and caveats of each. This is done within the context of device development and how device options can be considered for appropriate treatment delivery for children with airway disease, such as asthma.