[Prophylactic treatment of asthma].
OBJECTIVE
To review basic concepts, inhalation therapy, classification of asthma and peculiarities of asthma in developing countries.


METHODS
Direct search in the Medline, HighWire and MD Consult databases.


RESULTS
Inhaled corticosteroids are the drugs of choice for the treatment of asthma. Alternatively, other drugs, such as long-acting beta-agonists and antileukotrienes could be considered.


CONCLUSIONS
At an individual level, asthma treatment presents a satisfactory outcome. However, the great challenge for public health professionals and authorities is to provide treatment for asthmatic patients from low-income families living in developing countries.
de Moura
José Augusto Rubim
JA
Departamento de Pediatria, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG. jrubim@terra.com.br
Camargos
Paulo Augusto Moreira
PA
de Blic
Jacques
J