[Long-term efficacy of high-dose aerosol corticotherapy in the treatment of severe asthma].

Forty-five patients with severe, poorly controlled asthma, including 23 corticosteroid-dependent patients, were treated with a preparation of beclomethasone dipropionate aerosol delivering 250 mcg per puff. The daily dose ranged from 1000 to 2000 mcg. The mean follow-up period was 14 +/- 7 months, and 11 patients have now been followed up for more than 2 years. Forty-two patients were improved, and total withdrawal of continuous steroid therapy could be achieved in 13 cases. Treatment remained effective in long term use, provided a minimum of 1000 mcg/day was given. However, despite clinical improvement the obstructive syndrome persisted in 65% of the patients.