Effectiveness of Text Message Reminders on Adherence to Inhaled Therapy in Patients With Asthma: Prospective Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background Poor adherence to inhaled medication in asthma patients is of great concern. It is one of the main reasons for inadequate asthma control. Objective The goal of the research was to determine if motivational messages using short message service (SMS, or text) improved adherence to inhaled medication in patients with asthma. Methods A prospective multicenter randomized parallel-group clinical trial was conducted in 10 asthma clinics in Spain. Adherence was assessed with electronic monitors (Smartinhaler, Adherium Ltd) connected to inhalers. Patients in the SMS group received psychologist-developed motivational messages every 3 days for 6 months. Results There were 53 patients in the SMS group and 88 patients in the control group. After 6 months, mean electronic adherence was 70% (SD 17%) in the intervention group and 69% (SD 17%) in the control group (P=.82). Significant differences between the study groups in morning and evening adherence to inhaled therapy, asthma control, exhaled nitric oxide levels, or improvement of lung functions were not observed. Conclusions Motivational messages were not useful to improve adherence to inhaled asthma medication compared with usual care.