Prescriptions for obstructive airway disease - AIHW report

Medications prescribed for people with obstructive airways disease: antibiotics and inhaled corticosteroids, is an AIHW report which focuses on the appropriate use of certain medications for the management of obstructive airways disease, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Appropriate use of medications is important in maximising health benefits for patients, minimising the negative effects of medications, and controlling health costs.  

Data in this report suggest that antibiotics are commonly used among patients with asthma and COPD, and that supply patterns for inhaled corticosteroids are often not consistent with treatment guidelines for the management of these conditions.