[Current aspects of analgetics-induced asthma].

Up to 10% of all asthmatics are intolerant to aspirin reacting with bronchospasm after intake of this drug. The triad aspirin-intolerance, glucocorticoid-dependent intrinsic asthma and nasal polyps is common in these patients. The reaction to aspirin is not mediated by IgE. Cross-intolerance is observed with all non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase. If intolerance to aspirin is suspected such drugs have to be strictly avoided. Paracetamol is the alternative in most instances. Only rarely an adaptive desensitization with acetylsalicylic acid is indicated. This method may help to overcome the intolerance. Non-acetylated salicylates occurring also in some foods, preservatives, and food dyes must not generally be avoided in aspirin-induced asthma.