When Are Children Given Prescriptions for Asthma Medications?
A population-based study of 46,371 Dutch children with asthma finds greater prescribing variability in younger children (aged six years and younger) compared with older children. The authors assert this is likely a direct result of the lack of diagnostic tools for young children with asthmatic symptoms. Investigating what other patient, family and physician characteristics influence whether children are given a prescription for asthma medication, researchers find that health-seeking behavior, parental asthma and the attitude and experience of the physician are associated with prescribing asthma medication. Several respiratory diagnoses other than asthma, including bronchitis and cough are also strongly associated with prescribing asthma medication. The authors conclude that diagnostic limitations may result in more physician- and family-driven prescribing, which isn’t always in the best interest of the child. What Drives Prescribing of Asthma Medication to Children? A Multilevel Popula
