Aerosols--therapeutic use and delivery in childhood asthma.

ABSTRACT

Aerosol therapy has dramatically improved the lifestyle of the children with asthma, reflecting both the availability of more effective and safer drugs and alternative methods for their delivery. Inhaled treatment with bronchodilators, cromolyn, and inhaled corticosteroids, used singly or in various drug combinations, can control all but the most intractable asthmatic. It is essential that the inhalational device prescribed is appropriate for the child's age and that careful instructions are given as to optimal inhalation technique. Infants and young children with asthma should be given a trial of inhaled bronchodilators, recognizing the limitations this treatment may have in this age group.