NICE guidelines for ASTHMA

In the rapid guidance on ASTHMA produced by NICE in light of Covid-19 gives recommendations on treatment for adults aged 17 years and over, children and young people aged 5 to 16 years, and children under 5 years. The tables give dosages for adults aged 17 and over and children aged 5 to 11 years, because these reflect the age categories used in most UK marketing authorisations. In practice, the prescriber will choose dosages for children under 5 years and young people aged 12 to 16 years taking into account factors such as the severity of the condition being treated and the person’s size in relation to the average size of people of the same age.

The smallest dosage should be used to obtain optimal control: people with asthma should usually use the smallest dosage of ICS that provides optimal asthma control, to reduce the risk of side effects. The MHRA advises that steroid treatment cards should be routinely provided for people who need prolonged treatment with high dose ICS.