RightBreathe vs iatroX (2025): The Device Library vs The Prescribing Strategy

Last reviewed: 2025-12-19 · Reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler, MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP

At a Glance

Who is it for?

iatroX:Prescribers deciding the treatment plan.

RightBreathe:Prescribers & Nurses teaching inhaler technique.

Why choose iatroX?

  • **Strategic Choice**: Helps you follow the NICE asthma/COPD ladder (e.g. 'Add LAMA if exacerbating').
  • **Holistic Review**: Checks if the patient's beta-blockers are worsening the asthma.
  • **Acute Management**: Provides the protocol for acute exacerbations (steroids/nebs).
  • **Diagnosis**: Helps differentiate Asthma from COPD.

Why choose RightBreathe?

  • **Visuals**: Photos of every inhaler device available in the UK.
  • **Technique Videos**: Essential for showing patients *how* to use the device.
  • **Spacer Compatibility**: Tells you exactly which spacer fits which puffer.
  • **Carbon Footprint**: Highlights low-GWP (Green) inhaler options.

Feature Comparison

CapabilityiatroXRightBreathe
Question'What drug class do I need?''Which device delivers that drug?'
OutputManagement PlanTechnique Video / Device Info

In-Depth Analysis

Overview

Respiratory medicine in the UK relies on two distinct decisions:

  1. The Molecule: Do they need a steroid? A long-acting muscarinic? (Clinical decision)
  2. The Device: Can they suck hard enough for a dry powder? Do they need a spacer? (Practical decision)

iatroX helps you with Decision 1. It ensures you are following the latest NICE/BTS guidelines for disease management. RightBreathe helps you with Decision 2. It ensures the patient actually gets the drug into their lungs.

Key Differences

Use iatroX to write the management plan in the notes. Use RightBreathe during the consultation to teach the patient.

Use-Cases

Step-up Therapy

When to choose iatroX

  • **Winner.** 'Patient uncontrolled on ICS/LABA, what is the next step per NICE?'

When to choose RightBreathe

  • Useful only once you know you need a Triple Therapy inhaler.

Patient Education

When to choose iatroX

  • N/A

When to choose RightBreathe

  • **Winner.** Open the app and show the patient the video of how to load their Ellipta/Handihaler.

Identifying a Device

When to choose iatroX

  • N/A

When to choose RightBreathe

  • **Winner.** 'Patient brought this blue oval inhaler, what is it?'

FAQs

Is RightBreathe free?
Yes, it is a free app and website funded by the NHS.
Does iatroX have inhaler videos?
No. For technique videos, RightBreathe is the gold standard.