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Asthma — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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HardAsthma ManagementAsthmaSCE Respiratory

A 25-year-old with asthma has two oral-corticosteroid-treated exacerbations despite good adherence to low-dose budesonide/formoterol used only when symptomatic. Inhaler technique and modifiable triggers are satisfactory. What is the most appropriate next pharmacological step?

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Correct answer: A — Use low-dose ICS/formoterol as maintenance-and-reliever therapy

When asthma remains uncontrolled on as-needed low-dose ICS/formoterol, BTS/NICE/SIGN recommends progression to low-dose maintenance-and-reliever therapy with an appropriately licensed ICS/formoterol inhaler. This increases anti-inflammatory treatment when symptoms worsen. LABA or SABA monotherapy and maintenance oral corticosteroids expose the patient to avoidable risk.

Reference: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245