- The second revision of the guidelines for the treatment of asthma in children is largely based on the evidence of comparative studies.

- Short-acting β2-sympathicomimetics are the medication of choice for acute exacerbations and should therefore be prescribed to each patient.

- Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the medication of choice for maintenance treatment.

- Starting with a high dose of ICS which is then reduced to a lower but effective level on the basis of the complaints (step-down approach) is no longer recommended, as this strategy is not more effective than a constant dosage schedule.

- If asthmatic symptoms persist despite ICS maintenance treatment then 3 therapeutic options are available in the following order: doubling the ICS dose, the addition of a long-acting β2-sympathicomimetic, and the addition of a leukotriene receptor antagonist.