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For adults with mild to moderate asthma, a dose of inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) taken in the afternoon suppressed the worsening of nighttime lung function better than other dosing regimens, a small crossover trial published in Thorax showed. A single 400 µg dose between 3PM and 4PM improved nighttime forced expiratory volume compared to baseline in a 28-day study of 25 participants, which included a washout period. However, when the same dose was given between 8AM and 9AM, or when a 200 µg dose was given twice per day, the results were more modest. In a separate editorial, experts note that, “Although midafternoon dosing of BDP demonstrated clinically important differences in lung function of 170 ml and significant reduction in eosinophil levels, these did not lead to better symptomatic control.” The authors suggest that while the results are valuable, more research is needed.
Gotta jump off this meeting early: Peak airflow obstruction and airway inflammation often occurs at night for asthma patients, resulting in typical symptoms, such as cough, chest tightness, and wheeze. But suggesting midafternoon dosing to relieve nighttime symptoms could make it even more challenging for the average patient to stick to their inhaler regimens.
Read More
- Assessment and Management of Asthma Exacerbation in Urgent Care: Part 1
- Assessment and Management of Asthma Exacerbation in Urgent Care: Part 2