For a patient experiencing daily asthma symptoms and needing an inhaler frequently, what is the best treatment approach?

In this scenario, the appropriate treatment approach for a patient experiencing daily asthma symptoms and requiring frequent use of an inhaler involves the daily use of a low-dose ICS/formoterol combination. This combination therapy addresses both control of inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the cornerstone of asthma management due to their effectiveness in reducing airway inflammation, which is a key component in the pathophysiology of asthma. Formoterol, a long-acting beta-agonist, when combined with ICS, provides both immediate and prolonged bronchodilation, improving symptom control and reducing exacerbations.

Utilizing the ICS/formoterol combination allows for a more comprehensive approach, targeting both the underlying inflammation and the immediate bronchospasm. This can lead to better asthma control as reflected by fewer symptoms, reduced need for rescue inhalers, and improved overall lung function.

In contrast, relying solely on a short-acting beta agonist is not adequate for managing persistent asthma symptoms since it does not address the underlying inflammation; this can lead to increased frequency and severity of asthma attacks over time. Simply resuming low-dose ICS could be beneficial, but it may not provide the immediate relief that a patient may need with frequent symptoms.

Starting oral medications