Providers caring for patients with severe, therapy-resistant asthma have novel options for their treatment. Administration of additional inhaled corticosteroids at the time of increased symptoms, a strategy referred to as anti-inflammatory rescue or AIR, has been proved to be effective in reducing the frequency of exacerbations and improving asthma-related quality of life. Long-acting muscarinic antagonists can be used in combination with long-acting beta-agonist bronchodilators for additional bronchodilation. The care of the patient with severe asthma must also include a strategy to help avoid severe, life-threatening asthma attacks, with intense patient education and a recommended survival toolkit.
Keywords: Biologics; Bronchial thermoplasty; Leukotriene modifiers; Long-acting muscarinic antagonists; Monoclonal antibodies; SMART therapy; Severe asthma.
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