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SABA overuse — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory TherapeuticsSABA overuseGPhC CRA

A 23-year-old woman presents with wheeze and cough at night twice weekly. She buys salbutamol inhalers frequently and has used three inhalers in the last 10 weeks. Her peak flow today is 78% of predicted and she is speaking in full sentences. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: A — Refer for asthma review and discuss preventer treatment urgently

Frequent SABA use is a marker of poor asthma control and increased risk of exacerbation. Night symptoms and reduced peak flow support the need for prompt clinical review and preventer optimisation rather than repeated reliever supply. The patient is not described as having features requiring immediate emergency transfer, but the pattern is unsafe. Stopping reliever treatment would be inappropriate because salbutamol remains needed for acute symptoms.

Reference: NICE CKS Asthma; BNF