Effect of Budesonide on Exhaled Nitric Oxide in Asthmatic Children

Phase IV Study of the Effect of Nebulized Budesonide on Exhaled Nitric Oxide in Children, Four to Six Years of Age, With Asthma

To study the improvement in airway inflammation in children with asthma non-invasively with exhaled breath NO, a marker of inflammation, after therapy with nebulized budesonide as 0.5mg daily.

Comparisons will be made before and after 2 week therapy of nebulized budesonide in children not on prior anti-inflammatory medications.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Asthma diagnosis previously for 6 months
• Past asthma medication without change for previous 6 months
• Increased NO levels and ability to perform maneuver
• ICF signed by parents

Exclusion Criteria:

• Systemic steroids in past 60 days,inhaled/nebulized steroids in past 4 weeks
• Hospitalization within 3 months
• Upper or lower airways active infection or cigarette smoke direct exposure
• Use of other asthma medications other than bronchodilators one month prior and during the trial
• Noncompliance