Asthma management with combination of fluticasone and formoterol: the Indian perspectiverspective

Asthma is a major health problem globally that affects people across all the age groups. The prevalence of asthma is increasing worldwide, especially in the low- and middle-income countries. Asthma is controlled with inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) with as-needed or daily low-dose therapy. A step-up therapy to daily combination treatment with low- or medium-dose ICS/long-acting β-agonist (LABA) may be required for those with persistent symptoms. Asthma control levels are low despite the availability of many therapies. The efficacy of inhaled asthma therapy is dependent on the efficiency and reliability with which the drug is delivered to the lungs. Combination of an ICS and a LABA in a single inhaler is a safe, effective, and convenient treatment option for asthma management. Fluticasone and formoterol in combination ensure high potency action against anti-inflammation and rapid bronchodilation, and is a well-established ICS-LABA dual therapy. Rapid bronchodilator action of formoterol and fluticasone’s long-term action against inflammation are vital clinical attributes for optimal asthma maintenance treatment. Fluticasone/formoterol combination therapy is an efficacious and safe alternative treatment option for patients with moderate to severe asthma. The combination of the two in a single inhaler is beneficial with regards to ease of administration and patient compliance.