From the FDA Drug Label
ALVESCO is not indicated for children under 12 years of age. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
For children with asthma, according to Canadian guidelines, Alvesco (ciclesonide) dosing depends on age and asthma severity, with a recommended starting dose of 100-200 mcg once daily for children 6-11 years old, as supported by the study 1. The dosing of Alvesco for children with asthma should be individualized based on the child's age and the severity of their asthma.
- For children 6-11 years old, the recommended starting dose is typically 100-200 mcg once daily.
- For adolescents 12 years and older, the starting dose may be 100-400 mcg once daily.
- For younger children aged 4-5 years, a lower dose of 100 mcg once daily is often used, as seen in the study 1 which demonstrated the efficacy and safety of ciclesonide in children with persistent asthma. Alvesco should be administered via the inhaler in the evening for optimal effect, and the child's symptoms should be reassessed after 4-6 weeks to adjust the dose as needed, aiming for the lowest effective dose that controls symptoms, as suggested by the study 2. It is essential to ensure proper inhaler technique is demonstrated and that the child uses a spacer device if coordination is an issue, and to monitor for potential side effects such as oral thrush, which can be minimized by rinsing the mouth after use, as mentioned in the study 3. Regular follow-up is crucial to assess asthma control and adjust therapy accordingly, taking into consideration the factors that may affect disease control, such as age, obesity, and smoking, as identified in the study 4.