Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Impact Assessment of Repeated Exposure of Organotypic 3D Bronchial and Nasal Tissue Culture Models to Whole Cigarette Smoke
Published on: February 12, 2015
Duration of growth suppressive effects of regular inhaled corticosteroids
I J Doull1, M J Campbell, S T Holgate
1Department of Child Health, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff.
Insights
Regular inhaled corticosteroid use in children temporarily suppresses growth, particularly in the first 18 weeks of treatment. After this period, growth rates normalize, suggesting a transient effect of these asthma medications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are a cornerstone of asthma management in children.
- Concerns exist regarding potential long-term effects of ICS on growth velocity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the impact of regular inhaled corticosteroid treatment on the growth of children.
- To determine the temporal pattern of growth suppression associated with inhaled corticosteroid initiation.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 50 children receiving regular ICS was studied.
- Growth data was analyzed in six-week intervals post-treatment initiation.
- A random effects regression model compared growth during ICS treatment versus non-treatment periods.
Main Results:
- Significant growth suppression was observed, most pronounced within the initial 18 weeks of ICS therapy.
- Growth rates returned to baseline levels comparable to non-treatment periods after the initial 18 weeks.
- The magnitude of suppression varied, with the most substantial impact noted early in the treatment course.
Conclusions:
- Inhaled corticosteroid treatment in children leads to a temporary, but significant, reduction in growth velocity.
- The most critical period for monitoring growth is the initial 18 weeks of therapy.
- These findings necessitate careful consideration of treatment initiation and monitoring strategies for pediatric asthma management.
Abstract:
The growth of 50 children receiving regular inhaled corticosteroids was segregated into divisions of six weeks from the start of treatment and compared with their growth when not receiving regular corticosteroids using a random effects regression model. Growth suppression was most marked during the initial six weeks after starting treatment, with most suppression occurring during the initial 18 weeks. Thereafter the children's growth was similar to their growth when not receiving treatment. These findings have important consequences for patterns of treatment of asthma in children.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...
Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Glucocorticoids
Inhaled Medications
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features

