Our Comment:
Inhaled corticosteroids represent a key element in the treatment of asthma. They are much more expensive than orally administered steroids but they achieve their effect with considerably fewer side-effects. Aerosols administered in high doses over a long period of time are not devoid of the suspicion of causing osteoporosis. However, the treatment is only given to subjects who would be in danger of much higher risks without steroids. The primary problem is to uphold the patient's discipline.