1 Guidance

This guidance should be read in conjunction with Inhaler devices for routine treatment of chronic asthma in older children (aged 5–15 years), NICE technology appraisal guidance 38, and Guidance on the use of inhaler systems (devices) in children under the age of 5 years with chronic asthma, NICE technology appraisal guidance 10. The future discontinuation of CFC-containing inhaler devices will affect the range of devices available but does not affect the guidance.

1.1 For children under the age of 12 years with chronic asthma in whom treatment with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) is considered appropriate, the least costly product that is suitable for an individual child (taking into consideration technology appraisal guidance 38 and 10), within its marketing authorisation, is recommended.

1.2 For children under the age of 12 years with chronic asthma in whom treatment with an ICS and long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) is considered appropriate, the following apply.

  • The use of a combination device within its marketing authorisation is recommended as an option.

  • The decision to use a combination device or the two agents in separate devices should be made on an individual basis, taking into consideration therapeutic need and the likelihood of treatment adherence.

  • If a combination device is chosen then the least costly device that is suitable for the individual child is recommended.