Reducing puffer use in asthmatic teens and adults

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2021-09-30 03:00

Australia; NSW; VIC; QLD; WA

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Asthma can and should be controlled in most people without frequent use of oral corticosteroids (OCS) such as puffers, according to a position statement by Aussie researchers who want to reduce OCS use in teens and adults to minimise associated side effects. Indiscriminate use of OCS is common and can lead to weight gain, mood disturbances, insomnia and skin changes. But asthma control and prevention can be improved with better inhaler technique, adherence to therapy, asthma education, quitting smoking, better-targeted medications, and other strategies, according to the team. Doctors and patients alike should be made aware that OCS should not be used lightly, they say, as asthma can be controlled effectively with more than just OCS.