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Adherence to inhaled corticosteroids: comparison of available therapies

Kevin R Murphy1

  • 1Boys Town National Research Hospital, Allergy, Asthma & Pediatric Pulmonology, Boys Town, NE 68010, USA. murphyk@boystown.org

Pulmonary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|June 15, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Parental awareness of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) efficacy and safety is key for pediatric asthma adherence. This review compares available ICSs to identify features influencing adherence in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Pharmacology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Adherence to daily anti-inflammatory therapy, primarily inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs), is crucial for managing persistent asthma in children.
  • Parental/caregiver involvement is central to pediatric asthma treatment adherence, necessitating their understanding of medication efficacy and safety.
  • Factors like dosing complexity and inhaler technique significantly impact adherence to asthma controller medications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and compare the characteristics of currently available inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) approved for pediatric asthma in the United States.
  • To identify specific features of ICSs that may influence treatment adherence in pediatric asthma management.
  • To inform parents and healthcare providers about ICS options to improve adherence.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of available inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) for pediatric asthma in the US.
  • Comparative analysis of ICS features, including efficacy, safety profiles, and administration methods.
  • Examination of factors influencing parental/caregiver adherence and their impact on pediatric asthma management.

Main Results:

  • Six inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs), excluding nebulized formulations, are approved for pediatric use in the United States.
  • Variations in ICS properties, such as dosing frequency and inhaler device design, may affect adherence.
  • Parental beliefs and concerns regarding ICS therapy can influence adherence rates.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the features of different inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) is essential for optimizing pediatric asthma treatment adherence.
  • Addressing parental concerns and simplifying treatment regimens can improve adherence to ICS therapy.
  • Further research into ICS characteristics that promote adherence in children is warranted.

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