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Beclomethasone dipropionate in long-term treatment of asthma in children

The Journal of Pediatrics
|November 1, 1976
PubMed

Insights

Beclomethasone dipropionate effectively reduces pediatric asthma symptoms without impacting lung function. Long-term use shows no adverse effects on growth or organ function, though it may increase oral yeast infections.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Childhood asthma requires effective and safe long-term management strategies.
  • Inhaled corticosteroids are a cornerstone of asthma therapy, but safety profiles require ongoing evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the efficacy and safety of beclomethasone dipropionate in pediatric asthma patients.
  • To evaluate the long-term effects of beclomethasone dipropionate on pulmonary function, growth, and organ systems.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of pediatric asthma patients received beclomethasone dipropionate at 100 mug three times daily.
  • Pulmonary function tests, growth parameters, adrenal function, serum electrolytes, and hepatic/renal functions were monitored over 18 months.

Main Results:

  • Beclomethasone dipropionate significantly reduced asthma symptoms.
  • No measurable impact on pulmonary function was observed.
  • No adverse effects on adrenal function, growth, electrolytes, or hepatic/renal functions were detected over 18 months.
  • A predisposition to Candida albicans colonization in the oropharynx was noted.

Conclusions:

  • Beclomethasone dipropionate is an effective treatment for pediatric asthma with a favorable 18-month safety profile regarding growth and organ function.
  • Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for oropharyngeal candidiasis with this treatment.

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