Role of systemic and inhaled glucocorticoids in asthma

Corticosteroids are the preferred anti-inflammatory drugs for long-term con trol of persistent asthma. Alone or in combination with long-acting broncho dilators, they are indicated for primary treatment of mild, moderate, and s evere persistent asthma. They hasten the resolutions of asthma exacerbation , reducing morbidity, hospitalization, and death. They also reduce the long -term accelerated loss of pulmonary function and development of fixed airfl ow obstruction caused by airway remodeling. Their effectiveness depends on their early introduction into the treatment of asthma.