Which combination is recommended for a 12-year-old with persistent moderate asthma?

For a 12-year-old with persistent moderate asthma, the recommended treatment is a combination of a medium-dose inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA). This combination is effective because the medium-dose ICS helps to control inflammation and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks, addressing the underlying issues that exacerbate asthma symptoms. The addition of a LABA is crucial as it provides long-term bronchodilation, helping to open the airways and improve overall breathing. This dual approach not only enhances symptom control but also helps to reduce the need for rescue medications, leading to better overall management of asthma.

Using a low-dose ICS and LABA is generally more appropriate for patients with mild asthma rather than moderate, while medium-dose ICS alone may not provide sufficient control for someone with persistent moderate asthma. The combination of medium-dose ICS and leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA) can be a viable option, but current guidelines typically prioritize ICS/LABA combinations for patients with moderate asthma to ensure comprehensive control of both inflammation and bronchoconstriction.