INSUFFICIENT CONTROL OF ASTHMA - INCREASE THE DOSE OF INHALED STEROIDS OR ADD LONG-ACTING BETA(2)-AGONISTS

Internationally accepted treatment guidelines for bronchial asthma hav e established the early introduction of inhaled corticosteroids as a d isease-modifying treatment, in addition to bronchodilator treatment as needed. In a small group of patients this approach does not lead to s ufficient control of asthma. It is a matter of debate whether in this situation the dose of inhaled steroids should be increased or the bron chodilator treatment intensified by the introduction of long-acting be ta(2)-agonists. Advantages and limitations of both treatment strategie s are discussed in the light of recent data. Guidelines for the use of long-acting beta(2)-agonists are proposed.