Budesonide and formoterol in a single inhaler controls asthma in adolescents

Petr Pohunek, Asher Tal

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    9 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Despite the availability of effective treatments and national guidelines, morbidity from asthma remains high among adolescents. Adolescents need to be considered as a distinct group of individuals with different requirements to those of children and adults. In particular, their non-adherence to prescribed treatment regimens is of concern and is a significant factor contributing to the high rate of morbidity in adolescents. Studies in children aged 4 to 17 years suggest that the combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting β2-agonist effectively controls asthma symptoms in patients who remain symptomatic on ICS alone. In order to improve adherence to therapy, the use of combined therapy with an ICS and a long-acting β2-agonist in a single inhaler should be considered and the dosing frequency should be adjusted according to the severity of asthma symptoms. This should empower patients with a greater degree of self-management and may be important in helping adolescents feel responsible for the management of their asthma. Results from a recent subanalysis demonstrate that the combination of budesonide and formoterol administered twice daily via a single inhaler (Symbicort® Turbuhaler®) rapidly gains and maintains control of asthma in adolescents whose asthma is not controlled on ICS alone. It is anticipated that this will lead to improved adherence to therapy in this difficult-to-treat population.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)91-105
    Number of pages15
    JournalInternational Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health
    Volume16
    Issue number2
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 1 Jan 2004

    Keywords

    • Adherence
    • Adolescents
    • Asthma
    • Budesonide
    • Compliance
    • Formoterol
    • Symbicort

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
    • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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