OBJECTIVES: To investigate resource utilisation during treatment of asthma exacerbation within Primary Care centres throughout Spain. METHODS: Investigators recruited patients at 10 centres using wide inclusion criteria and international guidelines (GINA) to define asthma exacerbations and resolution using usual clinical practice. Information on utilisation of healthcare services, resources and asthma medication was recorded prospectively on a standard case report form during each patient’s exacerbation. RESULTS (preliminary): Of 133 patients recruited, 74% were female. The mean age was 48 (SD 20) years; nearly one third (32%) were aged 45-65, with a similar proportion (30%) aged 25-45. One third (33%; 44/133) of patients were in paid employment; almost twice as many of these were female (22%) than male (11%). On average, each patient made 2.9 (SD 1.4) visits to the Primary Care centre; 95% of these consultations were with a doctor. Medication was prescribed and tests were performed for 76% (101) of patients. Only one patient (with a mild exacerbation) was referred to hospital as an outpatient; there were no emergency admissions. Asthma exacerbation medication summarised by drug group and exacerbation severity is as follows. Drug group Mild (N=58) Moderate (N=58) Severe (N=17) Oral steroids 15 (26%) 20 (34%) 14 (82%) Inhaled steroids 31 (53%) 44 (76%) 13 (76%) Bronchodilator 14 (24%) 15 (26%) 7 (41%) Short acting beta-agonists 33 (57%) 30 (52%) 8 (47%) Long acting beta-agonists 11 (19%) 17 (29%) 6 (35%) CONCLUSIONS: This study gave a clear picture of Spanish treatment and prescribing patterns during asthma exacerbations, and can be useful as a baseline assessment against which changes in management can be assessed.