The Reliever Reliance Test: evaluating a new tool to address SABA over-reliance

Abstract

Abstract Over-use of SABA is associated with poor asthma control and greater risk of exacerbations and death. Identifying and addressing the beliefs driving SABA over-reliance is key to reducing over-use. This study aimed to assess the utility, impact and acceptability of the Reliever Reliance Test (RRT), a brief patient self-test behaviour-change tool to identify and address SABA over-reliance. Patients with asthma who completed the RRT in Argentina were invited to an online survey exploring the acceptability of the RRT, and its impact on patients’ perceptions of SABA and intention to discuss asthma treatment with a doctor. 93 patients completed the questionnaire. The RRT classified 76/93 (82%) as medium-to-high risk of SABA over-reliance (a mindset where SABA is perceived as the most important aspect of asthma treatment), with 73% of these reporting SABA overuse (3 or more times a week). 75% intended to follow the RRT recommendations to review their asthma treatment with their doctor. The RRT is acceptable to patients and was effective at raising awareness of, identifying and addressing SABA over-reliance and encouraging patients to review their treatment with their doctor.