Expert: Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator - 12/9/2010

Question
Hello Doctor, my son of four years age is suffering from allergic rhinitis & asthma that is he suffers from cold and cough very often and it first starts with sneezing followed with coughing. Problem of asthma starts from starting of cough. He was given medicine and is still taking inhalers (Baclate & Asthalin as prescribed by doctor) whenever the problem arises. Some one told me that alongside medicine if brandy is applied over the chest with gentle massage like oil just before taking bath, it is good for cough and cold. Is it true sir?  

Answer
Hello J DBarman,

The Belclate inhaler is not just for use when an attack occurs. It is an anti-inflammatory drug that takes a number of weeks of daily use to really have an impact on the condition. It takes approximately a full 6 months to reach peak efficacy. The Asthalin inhaler relaxes the muscles of the airways allowing them to open, thereby decreasing the symptoms, but is does not reduce the underlying inflammation. This is the inhaler that is to be used on an "as needed" basis. Is your physician having you use a spacer unit or chamber to administer the meds? At your sons age, this would be the most appropriate for therapy to achieve success.

Regarding the use of brandy...not appropriate. Alcohol chest rubs used to be used here in the US a number of years ago, until it was discovered that the amount of alcohol absorbed through the skin could be dangerous. You should not use this old remedy, for the safety of your child.

You may begin to see improvement after ~ 2-3 weeks of daily use of the Beclate, and during this time, you may need to use the Asthalin on a regular basis. After that, you should be able to cut back on the Asthalin, but do not discontinue the Beclate. In time, the doctor may decrease the dose of the Beclate, but do not do this on your own without discussing this with the doctor.

Sincerely,

Marc