Effects of Inhaled Corticosteroids on Mortality and Hospitalisation in Elderly Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease PatientsAppraising the Evidence

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common conditions that have substantial effects on daily functioning and medical resource utilisation. In elderly populations, the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) as a mainstay of treatment in asthma has long been accepted whereas the appropriateness and extent of use of ICS in COPD is not as clear. This paper reviews data associated with ICS treatment in the elderly, specifically characteristics of ICS users, rates of adherence, hospitalisation and mortality associated with ICS treatment.