Nasalide nasal solution package insert. Palo Alto, CA, July, 1988. Azmacort oral inhaler package insert. Collegeville, PA, June, 1993. Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory agents used in the management of asthma.
Glucocorticoids act on mast cells by slowing the synthesis of histamines.
The benefits of inhaled corticosteroids include a reduction in airway inflammation, a decrease in mucus secretion and airway edema, and a reduction in airway hyper-responsiveness. Again the Expert Panel has deemed that chance for adverse effects is far outweighed by the benefit. Inhalation therapy allows the topical administration of potent anti-inflammatory agents directly at the site of action in the airways. Administration directly to the site of action helps decrease the adverse effects observed with systemic corticosteroid therapy. All four agents are available as MDI formulations.