[Inhalative steriod treatment in bronchial asthma].

In the light of substantial recent advances in knowledge regarding the use of inhaled corticosteroids, general recommendations for such treatment are reviewed. The therapeutic effect is dose-related. High dose treatment has been shown to be effective in improving asthma control and reducing oral steroid requirement, while adverse side effects are usually of little consequence. The use of metered dose inhalers using correct technique and at a convenient time is a basic prerequisite in securing maximum effect. The development of new drugs with a better separation of local and systemic effects is improving therapeutic potential.