Most Parents Don’t Fill Their Kids’ Asthma Meds — Study

The majority of parents simply don’t fill their kids’ asthma prescriptions. That’s the take-home point in a study aimed at figuring out whether out-of-pocket costs for medications influenced parents’ willingness to fill prescriptions for their children’s asthma. Analyses from insurance claims for nearly 9,000 U.S. children between 1997 and 2007 showed that an increase in out-of-pocket costs for daily asthma-control drugs was associated with slightly lower medication adherence (41.7% vs. 40.3%) and higher rates of hospitalizations (1.7 hospital visits per 100 kids vs. 2.4 visits) in kids 5- to 18-years old. These are statistically significant differences. . read more.

Peak flow meter

A peak flow meter is a portable, easy-to-use device that measures how well your lungs are working. If you have asthma, your doctor may recommend that you use a peak flow meter to help track your asthma control. In addition to watching for worsening signs and symptoms, such as wheezing or coughing, you can use a peak flow meter to help you decide when you need to act to keep your asthma under control. Regular use of your peak flow meter can give you time to adjust your medication or take other steps before your symptoms get worse. A peak flow meter can be useful for adults and children as young as preschool age. . read more.