Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026
Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
Does continuous use of inhaled corticosteroids improve outcomes in mild asthma? A double-blind randomised controlled
Helen K Reddel1, Elena G Belousova, Guy B Marks
1Woolcock Institute of Medical Research and University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia. hkr@med.usyd.edu.au
Aim:
To compare the effects of fluticasone and placebo on asthma control in patients with mild asthma.
Method:
Adults with FEV1 >80% predicted and reliever use
Results:
44 subjects were randomised (23-fluticasone, 21-placebo). Fluticasone led to significantly better morning FEV1 (mean difference 5.4% predicted, p<0.0001), morning PEF, clinic spirometry, exhaled nitric oxide levels, and airway hyperresponsiveness, but there were no differences in reliever use, symptoms or quality of life. Fewer patients had mild exacerbations on fluticasone (22% vs 62%, p=0.02).
Conclusion:
The goals of asthma treatment include not only control of symptoms, but also prevention of future adverse outcomes such as exacerbations - which can occur even in mild asthma. This study showed that treatment with low dose inhaled corticosteroids led to significant improvements in lung function, exacerbations, and in pathophysiological predictors of future risk, even though symptoms were minimal at entry. For patients with mild asthma, discussion about treatment needs to consider not only short-term benefit, side effects and cost, but also long-term reduction of risk. This study was completed prior to mandatory registration for clinical trials.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
01:26COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
01:23Inhaled Medications
01:21Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Glucocorticoids
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...