Steroid and non-steroid anti-inflammatory agents in asthma.

Anti-inflammatory steroids are the principal agents for the treatment of asthma. Systemic corticosteroids are recommended for the treatment of acute episodes of asthma, whereas inhaled steroids should be used in the long-term prophylaxis of asthma. Because of their side-effects, there is a need for additional research and development of steroids without systemic activity, and/or other anti-inflammatory agents for use in the long-term prophylaxis of asthma.