Asthma in primary care: a case-based review of pharmacotherapy

Asthma remains a significant public health burden in the United States. Primary care providers are in an ideal position to be able to target treatment for their patients on an individual basis. It is important to determine the level of control and then base treatment on both the severity and activity of disease and the ability of the patient to be adherent to the therapy regimen. Because prescription medications along with office visits represent most asthma expenses, it is imperative to choose wisely from among the quick-relief and the long-term control medications to find the right choice for your patient.