This project set out to reduce the carbon footprint of inhalers in a pilot practice. This was achieved by optimization of inhaled therapy in a pharmacist led clinic aiming to reduce SABA overuse, and technician led switching of SABA inhalers to lower carbon equivalents (Ventolin switched to Salamol).
Patients with asthma were risk stratified using a digital ‘tool’ - a spreadsheet designed to give a visual overview of the asthma register and associated risk factors. Using the number of SABA inhalers prescribed in the last year as an indicator of potential poor asthma control, patients with high SABA use were selected for review.
Over a period of 6 months these interventions led to a reduction in the number of SABA inhalers prescribed and a reduction in carbon footprint of 16,425 kgCO2e, equivalent to 47,307 miles.
