The NAEPP-EPR3 asthma guidelines: A practical perspective

The latest asthma guidelines are characterized by an increased focus on asthma control and individualized treatment to reduce the patient's impairment and risk of exacerbations. The main components of care include frequent assessment of control and monitoring, patient education, control of environmental triggers, and evaluation of the effectiveness of medications. Failure to treat comorbid conditions, such as rhinosinusitis, and insufficient use of spirometry or peak-flow monitoring are common pitfalls. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) continue to be the mainstay of therapy. Long-acting ß₂-agonists are the preferred add-on treatment for patients with persistent asthma who have not adequately responded to an ICS alone. For patients with poorly controlled asthma, close monitoring at 2- to 6-week intervals is recommended. Once control is achieved, follow-up at 1- to 6-month intervals is appropriate.