The place of Intal in paediatric practice

Correct diagnosis of childhood asthma is essential for appropriate management. Precipitating factors, such as exercise or allergens, should be identified, and drugs prescribed as appropriate. beta-agonists are employed in children with mild episodic asthma. In children with moderate asthma, sodium cromoglycate is the first-line agent. Ketotifen and other antihistamines appear to have only a very weak antiasthmatic effect. Theophyllines are sometimes useful, but must be used with care because of side-effects. Inhaled corticosteroids are effective and necessary in those with severe disease. Successful management also depends on good compliance and appropriate patient monitoring.