Overview

• A randomized three-way crossover trial found that taking a single daily dose of inhaled corticosteroid (beclomethasone) between 3 PM and 4 PM significantly improves nighttime lung function and reduces airway inflammation.
• The mid-afternoon dosing strategy showed a 100 ml improvement in lung function at 10 PM compared to morning dosing, with no increase in steroid-related side effects or cortisol suppression.
• The study included 21 participants with mild to moderate asthma, each completing three different dosing regimens with a two-week washout period between them.
• Researchers emphasize the need for larger-scale trials to confirm findings and assess feasibility in broader clinical settings.
• Experts suggest that this approach, known as chronotherapy, could address the nocturnal worsening of asthma symptoms, which is linked to 80% of fatal asthma attacks.