OBJECTIVE: To review concepts, long-term treatment schemes and peculiarities of the approach to adolescents with respiratory allergy, asthma and/or allergic rhinitis. METHODS: The data were obtained by systematic revision of studies published in the BIREME database between 1990 and 2001. RESULTS: Most teenagers with asthma and/or rhinitis prefer to view their disease as episodic and do not accept the need for regular medication. These factors combined with the fear of being different from their peer group are responsible for poor treatment adherence. CONCLUSIONS: It is extremely important that adolescent patients affected by asthma and/or allergic rhinitis be well-informed about their condition and receive proper medication; however, the following should also be considered: 1) open communication between the clinician and adolescent patients 2) inquiry into the fears and anxieties of the patient 3) shared responsibility for the treatment.