Dr Samantha Walker, Executive Director, Research and Policy at Asthma UK, says: 'This study confirms that the most effective way to control asthma in children is with daily inhaled corticosteroids. However, we know that long-term adherence to medicine treatment plans can be difficult, particularly when a child's asthma seems to be under control.

'The use of combined preventer and reliever medicines as rescue therapy appears to be superior to reliever inhalers alone and offers a new 'step-down' approach to the management of mild, well-controlled asthma in children and young people who find it difficult to adhere to long-term daily treatment with inhaled steroids.

'Many parents have concerns about their child's steroid intake. However, research shows that children on low daily doses of preventer medicines show no difference in growth. At higher doses, the picture is less clear. For all children, treatment plans should be reviewed at least every six months.

'If you have any concerns about your asthma treatment, Asthma UK recommends you speak to your doctor or asthma nurse.'

Source:
Asthma UK