Many patients with asthma suffer disabling symptoms and some still die, despite it being a condition that can be well-controlled with the appropriate use of drug therapies. In this article, the key principles of asthma management are visited and some of the newer therapies available for prescription are discussed. The importance of device and inhaler technique will also be considered.

Beverley Bostock-Cox - Nurse practitioner, Mann Cottage Surgery, Moreton-in-Marsh; clinical lead, Education for Health Warwick