This asthma treatment has a lasting side effect in children

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Updated: May 7, 2026

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
14:39

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma

Published on: November 4, 2010

Tanner Nissly1, Shailendra Prasad

  • 1Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.

The Journal of Family Practice
|October 2, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Inhaled corticosteroids for childhood asthma may cause long-term growth effects, contrary to previous beliefs. This study suggests that the impact on children's growth might be permanent.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Asthma is a common chronic respiratory condition in children.
  • Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the most effective long-term control medication for persistent asthma.
  • Concerns exist regarding potential side effects of ICS, including effects on growth.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the long-term effects of inhaled corticosteroids on the growth of children with asthma.
  • To determine if growth suppression associated with ICS use is reversible or persistent.

Main Methods:

  • A longitudinal study design was employed.
  • Growth parameters (e.g., height, weight) were monitored over several years.
  • Statistical analyses were used to compare growth trajectories between children using ICS and control groups.

Main Results:

  • Children using inhaled corticosteroids showed a statistically significant reduction in growth velocity compared to controls.
  • The observed growth suppression persisted throughout the study period.
  • No catch-up growth was observed after cessation of ICS treatment in a subset of patients.

Conclusions:

  • The effect of inhaled corticosteroids on the growth of children with asthma may not be temporary.
  • Clinicians should carefully consider the long-term implications of ICS therapy on growth in pediatric asthma patients.
  • Further research is warranted to explore mechanisms and potential interventions.

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