Asthma (in children) - corticosteroids

Summary

If inhaled corticosteroids are appropriate for children aged under 12 years who have chronic asthma, the least expensive product that is suitable for the individual child should be used.
If both an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-2 agonist are needed, then a combination device that contains both medicines may be used. The decision to use a combination device should be based on the individual child and their asthma. If a combination device is chosen, the least expensive device that is suitable for the individual child should be used.

Documents

For healthcare professionals

• TA131 Asthma (in children) - corticosteroids: guidance
• TA131 Asthma (in children) - corticosteroids: guidance (MS Word format)
• TA131 Asthma (in children)- corticosteroids: quick reference guide

For patients, carers and the public

• TA131 Asthma (in children) - corticosteroids: understanding NICE guidance (MS Word format)
• TA131 Asthma (in children) - corticosteroids: understanding NICE guidance
• TA131 Corticosteroidau a anadlir ar gyfer trin asthma cronig mewn plant o dan 12 oed: deall canllawiau NICE (fformat MS Word)

Background information

• 2007/061 NICE appraisal of inhaled corticosteroids for the treatment of asthma in children under the age of 12

Implementing this guidance

Any further information NICE has produced to help the NHS implement this guideline locally is linked to below:

• Asthma (in children) - corticosteroids: costing statement
• Asthma (in children) - corticosteroids: audit criteria