Daily vs. As-Needed Inhaled Corticosteroid for Mild Persistent Asthma
Author Information
Author(s): Markku Turpeinen, Kari Nikander, Aino S. Pelkonen, Päivi Syvänen, Raimo Sorva, Hanna Raitio, Pekka Malmberg, Kati Juntunen-Backman, Timo Haahtela
Primary Institution: Helsinki University Hospital
Hypothesis
Does daily inhaled budesonide provide better control of mild persistent asthma in children compared to as-needed use?
Conclusion
Regular use of budesonide leads to better asthma control but has more systemic effects than as-needed use.
Supporting Evidence
- Children receiving continuous budesonide had significantly fewer exacerbations compared to the DSCG group.
- After 18 months, lung function improvements did not differ between treatment groups.
- Growth velocity was normalized during low-dose budesonide treatment.
Takeaway
This study found that using asthma medicine every day helps kids breathe better, but it can also slow their growth a little.
Methodology
The study was a controlled, randomized, double-blind trial comparing two budesonide regimens and a control group over 18 months.
Potential Biases
The open-label nature of the DSCG group may introduce bias in treatment effects.
Limitations
The study's design may not reflect individual asthma evolution and had strict exclusion criteria.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 5-10 years, all Caucasian, with mild persistent asthma.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.012
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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