Although our understanding of the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of asthma has improved, the morbidity as well as the mortality still seem to be on the rise. Fortunately, our better understanding of this condition as an inflammatory disorder, as well as the newer drugs available and better use of older drugs, and most importantly, the impowerment of the patient to monitor and adjust his or her own therapy, will improve this situation. Patient education is essential. The use of a classification such as that proposed by the Global Initiative for Asthma Report (J Am Med Ass 1997;278:1857) can be of immense help. The increased potency and better delivery systems for inhaled steroids as well as the addition of the leukotriene-receptor inhibitors have improved our therapeutic options. However, other agents such as our old friend theophylline, cromolyn, or nedocromil, as well as the addition of inhaled anticholinergics to an inhaled regimen, gives us a wide range of therapeutic options. Careful attention to possible precipitating factors, such as ENT disorders, gastroesophageal regurgitation, respiratory infection, and allergy, is necessary. —Eric Leibovitch, MD.