Are inhaled corticosteroids effective for acute exacerbations of asthma in children?
If started early and at high doses, the acute use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) provides modest benefit in patients with mild exacerbations of asthma. In more severe exacerbations, oral corticosteroids are significantly more effective in preventing hospitalizations and improving lung function. We conclude that ICS should not be used routinely to treat acute exacerbations.
Hendeles
Leslie
L
Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, The University of Florida, Gainesville 32610, USA. hendeles@cop.ufl.edu
Sherman
James
J
D000208:Acute Disease; D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000284:Administration, Oral; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002648:Child; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D013256:Steroids
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D013256:Steroids