The effect of omega-3 fatty acids on bronchial hyperresponsiveness, sputum eosinophilia, and mast cell mediators in asthma.

Background: Omega-3 fatty acid supplements have been reported to inhibit exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). It has not been determined whether omega-3 supplements inhibit airway sensitivity to inhaled mannitol, a test for bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) and model for EIB in people with mild to moderate asthma.

Methods: In a double-blind, crossover trial, subjects with asthma who had BHR to inhaled mannitol (n = 23; 14 men; mean age, 28 years; one-half taking regular inhaled corticosteroids) were randomized to omega-3 supplements (4.

Effects of budesonide and formoterol on allergen-induced airway responses, inflammation, and airway remodeling in asthma.

Background: Combining inhaled corticosteroids with long-acting beta(2)-agonists results in improved asthma symptom control and fewer asthma exacerbations compared with those seen after inhaled corticosteroids alone. However, there are limited data as to whether these beneficial effects are due to enhanced anti-inflammatory actions or whether such combination therapies affect airway remodeling in patients with asthma.

Objective: We sought to determine the effects of inhaled budesonide/formoterol combination therapy versus inhaled budesonide alone or inhaled placebo on allergen-induced airway responses, airway inflammation, and airway remodeling.

Effect of ciclesonide dose and duration of therapy on exercise-induced bronchoconstriction in patients with asthma.

Background: Inhaled corticosteroid therapy improves exercise symptoms in asthmatic subjects.

Objective: We sought to evaluate exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) as a method of determining the dose and time responses of inhaled corticosteroid therapy.

Methods: In this double-blind, randomized, cross-over study with 2 parallel arms, 4 doses of inhaled ciclesonide (40 microg and 160 microg or 80 microg and 320 microg) were compared over 3 weeks of treatment.