Should Non-eosinophilic Asthmatic Subjects be Treated With Inhaled Corticosteroids?

Summary

The efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in asthmatic subjects showing no sputum eosinophils is controversial. The broad aim of this study is to assess whether ICS alone or in combination with long-acting beta-2 agonists are an effective treatment in non-eosinophilic asthmatic subjects. Methods: The investigators will perform a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study comparing the efficacy of ICS and placebo for 4 weeks followed by a 4-week open treatment period with ICS/salmeterol in steroid-naïve asthmatic subjects without sputum eosinophilia. The primary outcome will be the the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score after four weeks of treatment by ICS or placebo. This study will determine whether or not non-eosinophilic asthmatic subjects respond to ICS and if they further benefit from the addition of a long-acting beta-2 agonists. This study will also determine whether or not the assessment of airway inflammation should be performed in every asthmatic patient in order to give the most appropriate treatment.

Timeline

Start

2007-10

Primary completion

2010-05

Completion

2010-09

Drugs

Indications