Inhaled corticosteroid therapy in children with persistent asthma: long-term risks and benefits

Abstract

This article addressed the use of inhaled corticosteroids in children with persistent asthma, a chronic condition that requires effective management to prevent exacerbations and ensure a good quality of life. Persistent asthma, characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways, requires treatments that control symptoms and underlying inflammation. The use of inhaled corticosteroids is widely recognized as the therapy of choice for this purpose. However, the long-term use of these drugs in pediatric patients raises concerns about possible adverse effects, such as the impact on growth and development, as well as the risk of adrenal suppression and other long-term complications. Therefore, the problem investigated in this study lies in the need to balance the therapeutic benefits of inhaled corticosteroids with the minimization of the risks associated with their prolonged use in children. The objectives of this study were to investigate the risks and benefits of long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids in children with persistent asthma, with a focus on identifying common side effects, impacts on growth and development, risk of adrenal suppression, and other possible complications. To achieve the objectives, the methodology used was a literature review, with the analysis of published studies on the subject, in order to synthesize current knowledge and offer evidence-based recommendations. The results obtained showed that, although inhaled corticosteroids are highly effective in controlling persistent asthma and preventing exacerbations, long-term use in children is associated with risks that require monitoring, as side effects such as oropharyngeal candidiasis and dysphonia were identified, as well as more serious concerns, such as growth impairment and the risk of adrenal suppression.