Do inhaled or oral glucocorticoids more effectively control feline asthma?

PICO question In cats with chronic bronchospasm and airway hypersensitivity (asthma) do oral glucocorticoids or inhaled glucocorticoids more effectively control the clinical signs? Clinical bottom line Category of research question Treatment. The number and type of study designs reviewed Three prospective randomised clinical trials were appraised. Two of the studies followed a crossover design and had a control group, whilst the third study described an interrupted time series. Strength of evidence Weak. Outcomes reported The available studies deemed a reduction in eosinophilia on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis, and a reduction in airway resistance as markers of treatment efficacy. Conclusion There is weak evidence to suggest equal treatment efficacy of oral and inhaled glucocorticoid therapy for management of feline asthma. Higher powered studies would be required before a definitive recommendation can be made.