Outpatient treatment of asthma

The proper management of the patient with asthma demands consideration of both medical and social factors. Although a nonpharmacologic approach is preferred, it is often necessary to prescribe medication for the treatment of asthma. Although theophylline remains a highly effective medication, corticosteroid aerosols and cromolyn are gaining in popularity and beta adrenergic agonists with longer and longer duration of action continue to be of major importance for first line treatment. Oral corticosteroids remain invaluable in the treatment of severe asthma. The role of other agents such as anticholinergics, antihistamines and products undergoing development might serve to change our therapy in the future. Physicians should not be hesitant to adapt if new concepts regarding pharmacologic or nonpharmacologic management suggests need for a modification of our present conceptualization of what's best for our patients.