Handbook backs combo inhaler as first line for mild asthma

The update coincides with a new PBS listing for the indication in adults and adolescents
Symbicort

An update of the Australian Asthma Handbook will advise that as-needed budesonide/formoterol can be used as a first-line treatment option for mild asthma.

The National Asthma Council Australia said it was flagging the changes ahead of a broader mid-July update of its handbook because the PBS listing for AstraZeneca’s budesonide/formoterol inhaler, Symbicort, was changed on Monday to cover mild asthma.