QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Adding a long-acting beta-agonist would be a later management step if his asthma symptoms did not improve. A low-dose inhaled corticosteroid should be trialled before this.
10002329
c
Add a long-acting beta-agonist
QuestionChoice
This patient is presenting with signs of worsening asthma. According to British Thoracic Society guidelines, the next best medical management, in this case, would be to add an inhaled corticosteroid medication alongside his salbutamol inhaler.
10002327
a
Add low-dose inhaled corticosteroid
QuestionChoice
As this patient is already on salbutamol when required, there is likely to be no additional effect of adding another short-acting beta agonist. Instead, a low-dose inhaled corticosteroid should be trialled to see if symptoms improve.
10002331
e
Add a short-acting beta agonist
QuestionChoice
Adding an LTRA medication would be the third step in the management of uncontrolled asthma. A low-dose inhaled corticosteroid should be trialled before this to see if it improves symptoms.
10002328
b
Add a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA)
QuestionChoice
Theophylline is a bronchodilator which is used in later stages of asthma, as opposed to low-dose inhaled corticosteroids which are usually used second-line.
10002330
d
Add theophylline
Concept
Chapter
2693
4033
Treatment options for asthma
Topic
189
Respiratory Pharmacology
13012
A 15-year-old male presents to the respiratory clinic with worsening symptoms of asthma. He mentions that he often feels breathless, especially in cold weather or when about to fall asleep at night. He has found that he is taking his salbutamol inhaler more often than usual. Aside from asthma, his past medical history includes eczema and hay fever. He is currently taking no other medications apart from salbutamol when required.

What is the next best step in the medical management of this patient's asthma?
a