Which statement best identifies the recommended long-term controller therapy for persistent mild-to-moderate asthma in a child?

Which statement best identifies the recommended long-term controller therapy for persistent mild-to-moderate asthma in a child?

• A. Inhaled corticosteroid daily
• B. Leukotriene receptor antagonist as sole therapy
• C. Short-acting beta-agonist as needed
• D. Systemic prednisone

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that controlling persistent asthma in children requires ongoing anti-inflammatory treatment, not just relief of symptoms. Daily inhaled corticosteroids address the underlying airway inflammation and are the most effective long-term controller for mild-to-moderate persistent asthma. They improve overall symptoms, reduce nighttime awakenings, and lower the risk of exacerbations when used regularly at appropriate low-to-moderate doses, usually with proper inhaler technique and a spacer. Leukotriene receptor antagonists can help some children, but they’re generally less effective as sole maintenance therapy for persistent disease. A short-acting beta-agonist provides quick relief of acute symptoms but does not prevent inflammation or control the disease long-term. Systemic prednisone is reserved for severe or life-threatening episodes or poorly controlled disease, not as a daily maintenance plan.

The main idea is that controlling persistent asthma in children requires ongoing anti-inflammatory treatment, not just relief of symptoms. Daily inhaled corticosteroids address the underlying airway inflammation and are the most effective long-term controller for mild-to-moderate persistent asthma. They improve overall symptoms, reduce nighttime awakenings, and lower the risk of exacerbations when used regularly at appropriate low-to-moderate doses, usually with proper inhaler technique and a spacer.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists can help some children, but they’re generally less effective as sole maintenance therapy for persistent disease. A short-acting beta-agonist provides quick relief of acute symptoms but does not prevent inflammation or control the disease long-term. Systemic prednisone is reserved for severe or life-threatening episodes or poorly controlled disease, not as a daily maintenance plan.