The Role of ICS/LABA Fixed-Dose Combinations in the Treatment of Asthma and COPD: Bioequivalence of a Generic Fluticasone Propionate-Salmeterol Device

Table 2

Risk factors for poor asthma outcomes that increase the risk for exacerbation and may require stepped-up controller therapy.

Types of risk factors	Risk factors for exacerbations
Condition	(i) Uncontrolled asthma symptoms
Medications	(i) High SABA use (with increased mortality if >1 x 200-dose canister/month); (ii) Inadequate ICS or not prescribed ICS; (iii) Poor adherence to ICS; (iv) Incorrect inhaler technique
Comorbidities	(i) Obesity; (ii) Chronic rhinosinusitis; (iii) Gastroesophageal reflux disease; (iv) Confirmed food allergy; (v) Pregnancy
Exposures	(i) Smoking; (ii) Allergen exposure if sensitized; (iii) Air pollution; (iv) Weather changes
Context	(i) Major psychologic or socioeconomic problems; (ii) Low health literacy
Lung function	(i) Low FEV1, especially <60% predicted; (ii) High bronchodilator reversibility
Other	(i) Other tests in patients with type 2 inflammation (e.g., blood eosinophils, elevated FeNO); (ii) Ever intubated or in ICU for asthma; (iii) ≥1 severe exacerbations in last 12 months

FeNO: fractional exhaled nitric oxide; FEV₁: forced expiratory volume in 1 second; ICS: inhaled corticosteroid; ICU: intensive care unit; SABA: short-acting beta agonist.