Initial starting doses of inhaled corticosteroids for asthma*
| Outcomes | Comparisons | Number of RCTs | Weighted mean difference (95% CI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| *PEF = peak expiratory flow; RCT = randomised controlled trial. All differences favour group listed first in the comparison column. | |||
| FEV1 % predicted | High v moderate dose | 2 | 10.3 (2.5 to 18.2) |
| Morning PEF (change from baseline) | Moderate v low dose | 5 | 11.1 (1.3 to 20.9) |
| Night waking | Moderate v low dose | 3 | −0.29 (−0.53 to −0.06) |
| Morning PEF (change from baseline) | ⩾4 fold v base dose | 5 | 10.2 (1.8 to 18.7) |
| 2 fold v base dose | 8 | 6.8 (0.75 to 12.8) | |