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ICS dose stepping down — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory TherapeuticsICS dose stepping downGPhC CRA

A patient with well-controlled asthma asks to stop their inhaled corticosteroid because they have not needed salbutamol for months. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: C — Advise prescriber-led step-down rather than stopping abruptly

Asthma treatment can be stepped down when control is sustained, but this should be planned and reviewed. Abrupt cessation may increase exacerbation risk. In this scenario, the correct option is advise prescriber-led step-down rather than stopping abruptly. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: NICE CKS