3.2.1. Single agent inhaled devices
Patients receiving inhaled corticosteroids for asthma should have their treatment reviewed regularly with those patients on a high-dose inhaled steroid being considered for step-down if appropriate. Patients receiving >1000 micrograms of 'traditional' beclometasone daily (or equivalent, e.g. fluticasone 500 microgram or budesonide 800 microgram) should be issued with a steroid card.
The British Thoracic Society and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network jointly produce the British Guideline on the Management of Asthma which is available from the SIGN website (www.sign.ac.uk). The GGC prescribing resources page contains useful resources for prescribing inhaler devices including device guides and patient information leaflets.
Prescribing Notes:
Preferred brands and devices:
- Beclometasone Easyhaler® (DPI)
- Clenil Modulite® (MDI)
To prevent confusion, prescribe inhaler devices by brand name. Different brands of beclometasone CFC-free inhalers are not equipotent and should be prescribed by brand name for safety reasons.
Prescribing Notes:
To prevent confusion, prescribe inhaler devices by brand name. Different brands of beclometasone CFC-free inhalers are not equipotent and should be prescribed by brand name for safety reasons.
Prescribing Notes:
Preferred brand and device:
- Pulmicort Turbohaler®
To prevent confusion, prescribe inhaler devices by brand name.