Drugs and Devices

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Note on ICS-equivalents

Consistent with international guideline publications, stated inhaled corticosteroid doses are expressed in beclomethasone dipropionate- (BDP-HFA)-equivalents for simplicity and editorial economy, and do not indicate a recommendation of any particular agent within this drug class. To calculate equivalent doses of other formulations, see Table 1. ICS dose equivalents. 

There are three main groups of asthma medications:

  • Relievers
  • Preventers
  • Symptom controllers - usually prescribed in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) preventer.

Combination medications consist of an ICS and a symptom controller in a single inhaler device.