Combination inhalers containing inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta2-agonists: improved clinical efficacy and dosing options in patients with asthma.

Combination therapy with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting beta2-agonists (LABA) is a recognized treatment for adults with moderate to severe asthma. The introduction of inhalers containing both an ICS and a LABA simplifies treatment and improves asthma control. This review discusses clinical evidence that budesonide/formoterol and salmeterol/fluticasone are effective and well tolerated in asthma treatment. Moreover, the rapid onset of effect and long duration of action of budesonide and formoterol make once-daily dosing, adjustable maintenance dosing, and the novel treatment strategy of using budesonide/formoterol for maintenance and as needed for symptom relief, valuable treatment options for patients with asthma.