What is the most suitable outpatient therapy for an 11-year-old boy with wheezing and shortness of breath three times a week?

The most suitable outpatient therapy for this 11-year-old boy, who experiences wheezing and shortness of breath three times a week, is low-dose inhaled corticosteroids combined with albuterol as needed.

Inhaled corticosteroids are considered the first-line treatment for persistent asthma, as they reduce inflammation in the airways, improve lung function, and decrease the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations. Given that the child's symptoms occur multiple times per week, this indicates a persistent asthma condition that requires more than just symptomatic relief.

Adding albuterol, a short-acting beta agonist, for use as needed provides quick relief during acute symptoms or exacerbations. This combination allows for better management of asthma, ensuring that the underlying inflammation is treated while also providing immediate relief when necessary.

In contrast, relying solely on a rescue inhaler may not adequately address the chronic nature of the child's symptoms and can lead to poor asthma control over time. long-acting beta agonists are not typically used as monotherapy in asthma treatment due to the risk of exacerbations without accompanying anti-inflammatory medications. Oral corticosteroids are generally used for acute exacerbations or severe asthma flare-ups and are not appropriate for routine outpatient management in a stable patient.

Therefore, the combination of