An assessment of the predictive value of low risk criteria for children with intermittent asthma

Background Current asthma guidelines recommend short acting beta agonist medication (SABA) be used in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid to reduce risk for severe asthma exacerbations. This may not be appropriate for patients at low risk for severe exacerbations. Methods This study is a cohort study using computerized claims data from Texas Children's Health Plan. Inclusion criteria were members 1 to 0 and ≤2 SABA canister dispensings group (odds ratio: 0.99, 95% confidence interval: 0.54–1.81). Interpretation Asthma patients at low risk for severe exacerbations can be identified. This information can be useful to guide treatment decisions.