When counseling parents about their children using inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), what should be highlighted?

When counseling parents about the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in children, it is important to emphasize that the benefits of ICS often outweigh the risks, including concerns about potential delayed bone growth. Inhaled corticosteroids are highly effective in managing chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, and their use can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms, improvement in lung function, and a decreased risk of exacerbation.

While there may be concerns regarding delayed bone growth with long-term ICS use, research supports that the benefits in controlling asthma and preventing acute episodes are considerable. Proper management of asthma not only improves a child's overall quality of life but also promotes optimal growth and development by ensuring better respiratory health.

Furthermore, treatments can be tailored and adjusted by healthcare providers to minimize risks, such as using the lowest effective dose of ICS and regularly monitoring the child’s growth and development, ensuring a balance between management and side effects. Therefore, reassuring parents that the advantages of ICS in ensuring a stable and functional respiratory status significantly surpass the potential risks allows for more informed decisions about their child's care.