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Inhaled Corticosteroids and Their Use in Asthma

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Abstract

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) have revolutionized the treatment of asthma. They are the most potent and effective therapy for persistent asthma and are efficacious in most patients, regardless of age or asthma severity [l• •]. ICS use diminishes airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, improves lung function, and controls symptoms in asthmatic patients. Clinically, ICS use has been shown to reduce the number of emergency room visits, hospitalizations [2], and deaths [3• •]. Histologic studies have found that ICS use may even positively affect the natural course of asthma. However, dose-related adverse effects such as growth suppression and decreased bone mineral density (BMD) may limit ICS use for some patients.

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Drain, K.L., Li, J.T.C. (2003). Inhaled Corticosteroids and Their Use in Asthma. In: Kaliner, M.A. (eds) Current Review of Asthma. Current Medicine Group, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-1095-2_15

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-1095-2_15

  • Publisher Name: Current Medicine Group, London

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4757-0810-3

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4613-1095-2

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