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Asthma SABA overuse — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRespiratory TherapeuticsAsthma SABA overuseGPhC CRA

A 24-year-old with confirmed asthma is using SABA-only treatment, requests a third salbutamol inhaler in six weeks and now wakes with wheeze on four nights each week. Technique is checked and adequate. Which controller pathway best reflects current NICE care after prompt clinical assessment?

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Correct answer: A — Start low-dose ICS/formoterol MART and address any acute treatment need

Four nights of waking each week is a highly symptomatic presentation. NICE recommends low-dose ICS/formoterol MART for people aged 12 and over who present highly symptomatic, while as-needed AIR is the initial option for less symptomatic SABA-only or newly diagnosed asthma. Any acute symptoms are treated as indicated, and diagnosis, adherence, technique and risk remain part of the prompt assessment. Serial SABA-only supply is not appropriate.

Reference: NICE NG245: Asthma diagnosis, monitoring and chronic management: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245/chapter/Recommendations