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LABA monotherapy in asthma — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRespiratory TherapeuticsLABA monotherapy in asthmaGPhC CRA

A 36-year-old woman with asthma presents a prescription for salmeterol inhaler, one puff twice daily. Her repeat medicines show salbutamol only, and she has had two courses of prednisolone this year. There is no inhaled corticosteroid on her record. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: D — contact the prescriber because LABA treatment should be used with inhaled corticosteroid therapy in asthma

LABA monotherapy in asthma is unsafe and should not be used without inhaled corticosteroid treatment. The patient's exacerbation history also suggests poor control requiring review. Salmeterol is not a reliever for acute attacks. The pharmacist should contact the prescriber to clarify the asthma regimen before supply.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS: Asthma