Inhaled beclometasone dipropionate/formoterol extra-fine fixed combination in the treatment of asthma: Evidence and future perspectives

BACKGROUND: Combinations of a long-acting beta(2)-agonist (LABA) and an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) are effective and safe options in asthma management. OBJECTIVE: To review available data on a recently developed combination of beclometasone dipropionate (BDP) and formoterol (F) given via a pressurized metered-dose inhaler. METHODS: Published data on preclinical and clinical studies were reviewed. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: In the treatment of asthma, BDP/F was shown to be at least as effective and well-tolerated as other available combinations of ICS and LABA with the advantage of a better cost effectiveness, and more effective in improving asthma control than BDP and formoterol given via separate inhalers. The extra-fine BDP/F combination appears to be a valuable therapeutic option in the management of asthma.