Asthma Series 

1 Asthma and Allergy
2 Asthma and Lung Function Testing
3 Asthma and Pain Relievers
4 Asthma and Air Pollution
5 Asthma and Complementary Therapies
6 Asthma and Infant Bedding
7 Asthma and Diet in Early Childhood
8 Asthma and Wheezing in the First Years of Life

Evidence-based information on the problems associated with asthma, including allergies, pain relief, diet in early childhood and many other issues is now available for health professionals and people with asthma.  Produced by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing in collaboration with the National Asthma Council Australia.

For patients: Asthma information brochures

Allergic rhinitis and asthma 

Patient brochure
Allergic rhinitis and your asthma: What you should know

Combination Therapy: Its Role in Asthma 

Combination Therapy: Its Role in Asthma
Experience with long-acting beta agonists (LABAs, or ‘symptom controllers’) over the last 10 years indicates that these drugs are potent and effective bronchodilators, capable of improving asthma control in those with moderate to severe disease

Inhaled Corticosteroids: A Practical Perspective 

Inhaled Corticosteroids: A Practical Perspective
The key goal of asthma management with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) is to achieve optimal asthma control with the lowest effective dose. Regular review is important to enable proper assessment and maintenance of asthma control.

Inhaler technique in adults with asthma or COPD  

Inhaler technique in adults with asthma or COPD 
Incorrect technique when taking inhaled medications frequently prevents patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) from receiving the maximal benefit from their medications .

For patients: Using your inhaler
Film clips demonstrating the main types of inhalers prescribed in Australia have been made to show how to use asthma or COPD inhalers properly. 

Leukotriene receptor antagonists 

Long Acting Beta₂ Agonists - Their Place in Asthma Management  

Long Acting Beta₂ Agonists - Their Place in Asthma Management 
This brochure has been written for practising clinicians to assist in appreciating the role of long-acting beta2 agonists.  

Vaccine Information 

Current Australian immunisation guidelines
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
The Australian Immunisation Handbook. 9th edn. Canberra: NHMRC, 2008. Available at www.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/Handbook-influenza [Accessed April 2009].  

Note: The following publications are no longer current and have been withdrawn.
Information paper: Roles of influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations in subgroups with asthma, COPD, diabetes or heart disease.
Patient brochure: Vaccine update for people with asthma, COPD, heart disease or diabetes