Peak flow meters allow patients to monitor their asthma - Peak Flow (or PEF - peak expiratory flow) is a measurement of how fast you can blow out. When someone is well, their PEF is higher - when the airways are narrow (as in asthma), PEF is lower. By recording this information, a patient can help their Doctor decide the best course of treatment.

The original Mini-Wright peak flow meter was developed in the 1970s by Dr. B.M. Wright, of the Medical Research Council, and Clement Clarke International, Harlow, England. The Mini-Wright remains the first choice of healthcare professionals across the world wishing to measure PEF, even into this new millennium. In recent years, Clement Clarke has developed the AirZone. A compact peak flow meter with zoning to enable individual patient plans to be managed.

All Clement Clarke peak flow meters are assessed for accuracy individually, before being packed. The Mini-Wright Standard, AFS Low Range and AirZone are both calibrated by hand, to ensure that readings from any two meters are comparable. This enables a patient to use a Mini-Wright at home and use a different Mini-Wright at the Clinic, yet still rely on the readings obtained.

Mini-Wright peak flow meters have a built-in one-way valve - an individual is prevented from inhaling through the device. This reduces the risk from others who have previously used the meter. It also facilitates the use of inexpensive cardboard tubes as disposable mouthpieces.

Since December 1990, peak flow meters have been available in the U.K. on prescription (FP10).

Since 1st September 2004, all peak flow meters in Europe and the U.K. must meet the new European Standard EN 13826. To find out more about the change, how it will affect you and how to purchase the new EU Scale Mini-Wright peak flow meter click on the Mini-Wright logo below.