Bronchodilators and corticosteroids

Do not routinely prescribe bronchodilators unless the patient has other indications for use (eg asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]). However, long-acting beta₂ agonists may provide some symptomatic benefit in patients with bronchiectasis and significant breathlessness. Bronchodilators may be used before performing airway clearance techniques, and as premedication to prevent bronchospasm from inhaled mucolytic agents and inhaled antibiotics.

Do not routinely prescribe corticosteroids unless the patient has other indications for use (eg inhaled corticosteroids for asthma or COPD, oral corticosteroids for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis [ABPA] or inflammatory bowel disease).