If you or a loved one suffers from asthma, you understand the importance of having access to effective medication that can provide relief during an asthma attack. The main medication used to relieve asthma attacks is a type of drug called a bronchodilator. This medication works by opening up the airways in the lungs, allowing for easier breathing. It’s a crucial tool in managing asthma symptoms and can make a significant difference in the quality of life for those affected by this chronic respiratory condition.
Short-Acting Beta Agonists (SABA)
Function of SABA
Short-Acting Beta Agonists (SABA) are a type of medication commonly used to relieve asthma attacks. They work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, allowing them to open up and making it easier to breathe. SABA medications provide quick-acting relief from symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.
Common SABA medications
Some common SABA medications include albuterol (Ventolin, ProAir, Proventil) and levalbuterol (Xopenex). These medications are typically available in inhaler form and are used for immediate relief during an asthma attack. They are generally safe to use and are suitable for both adults and children.
Administration of SABA
SABA medications are most commonly administered through inhalation. They come in a small, portable device called an inhaler, which allows you to easily deliver the medication directly into your lungs. To use an inhaler, you typically shake the device, remove the cap, exhale fully, place your lips around the mouthpiece, and then press down on the canister to release the medication while inhaling deeply. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or included with your medication for proper administration.
Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS)
Function of ICS
Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS) are a type of medication used for long-term control and prevention of asthma symptoms. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, making them less sensitive and lowering the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. ICS medications are not meant for immediate relief during an asthma attack, but rather for daily maintenance.
Common ICS medications
Some common inhaled corticosteroid medications include fluticasone (Flovent), budesonide (Pulmicort), and beclomethasone (Qvar). These medications are typically available in inhaler form and are used on a daily basis to keep asthma symptoms under control. They are generally safe to use and are suitable for both adults and children.
Administration of ICS
ICS medications are also administered through inhalation using an inhaler. However, the technique for using an ICS inhaler may be slightly different than that of a SABA inhaler. It is important to read and follow the specific instructions provided with your medication or as directed by your healthcare provider. Generally, the steps involve shaking the device, exhaling fully, placing your lips around the mouthpiece, and inhaling deeply while activating the canister to release the medication. Make sure to rinse your mouth with water after using an ICS inhaler to help prevent potential side effects such as oral thrush.
Combination Medications
Function of combination medications
Combination medications are a type of asthma medication that contains both a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) and an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). They provide both immediate relief and long-term control of asthma symptoms, making them convenient for individuals who require both types of medication.
Common combination medications
Some common combination medications include fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair) and budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort). These medications are usually available in inhaler form. They provide the benefits of both an ICS and a LABA, offering both anti-inflammatory effects and bronchodilation.
Administration of combination medications
Combination medications are typically administered through inhalation using an inhaler, similar to SABA and ICS medications. It is important to carefully follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or included with your medication for proper administration. Remember to rinse your mouth with water after using a combination inhaler to prevent potential side effects.
Leukotriene Modifiers
Function of leukotriene modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers are a type of medication that can be used as an alternative to inhaled corticosteroids for long-term control of asthma symptoms. They work by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are substances that cause inflammation and constriction of the airways. By inhibiting leukotrienes, these medications help reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms.
Common leukotriene modifier medications
Some common leukotriene modifier medications include montelukast (Singulair), zafirlukast (Accolate), and zileuton (Zyflo). These medications are typically available in oral tablet or chewable tablet form, and they are usually taken once or twice a day, depending on the specific medication.
Administration of leukotriene modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers are taken orally, either as a tablet or a chewable tablet. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and frequency of use as prescribed by your healthcare provider. These medications are typically meant for long-term use to maintain control of asthma symptoms.
Anticholinergics
Function of anticholinergics
Anticholinergics are a type of medication used to relieve asthma symptoms by relaxing and opening up the airways. They work by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which causes constriction of the airway muscles. By inhibiting acetylcholine, anticholinergics help prevent the airways from narrowing and improve breathing.
Common anticholinergic medications
Some common anticholinergic medications used for asthma management include ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) and tiotropium (Spiriva Respimat). These medications are typically available in inhaler form, and they are often used in combination with other asthma medications.
Administration of anticholinergics
Anticholinergic medications are usually administered through inhalation using an inhaler. The specific instructions for use may vary depending on the medication, so it is important to read and follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or included with your medication. Make sure to rinse your mouth with water after using an anticholinergic inhaler to lessen the potential for side effects.
Corticosteroid Pills
Function of corticosteroid pills
Corticosteroid pills, also known as oral corticosteroids, are a type of medication used for short-term treatment of severe asthma exacerbations. They are potent anti-inflammatory medications that help reduce airway inflammation and relieve symptoms.
Common corticosteroid pill medications
Some common corticosteroid pill medications used for asthma management include prednisone and methylprednisolone. These medications are typically taken orally in tablet or liquid form, and they are often prescribed for a short duration to quickly control severe asthma symptoms.
Administration of corticosteroid pills
Corticosteroid pills are taken orally as directed by your healthcare provider. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and duration of treatment provided to you. These medications should not be stopped abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as a gradual tapering of dosage may be necessary to avoid potential withdrawal symptoms.
Monoclonal Antibodies
Function of monoclonal antibodies
Monoclonal antibodies are a newer class of medications used for long-term control of severe asthma that is not well-controlled by other medications. They work by targeting specific molecules involved in the immune response and reducing inflammation in the airways.
Common monoclonal antibody medications
Some common monoclonal antibody medications used for severe asthma management include omalizumab (Xolair), mepolizumab (Nucala), and benralizumab (Fasenra). These medications are administered through subcutaneous injections and are typically given once every few weeks or months, depending on the specific medication.
Administration of monoclonal antibodies
Monoclonal antibodies are administered through subcutaneous injections, which means they are injected just under the skin using a small needle. The injections are typically given in a healthcare setting, such as a doctor’s office or clinic. It is important to follow the recommended dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider for optimal control of asthma symptoms.
Systemic Corticosteroids
Function of systemic corticosteroids
Systemic corticosteroids are a type of medication used for short-term treatment of severe asthma exacerbations. They are similar to corticosteroid pills but are delivered through intravenous (IV) infusion or intramuscular (IM) injection for faster and more immediate effect.
Common systemic corticosteroid medications
Common systemic corticosteroid medications used for severe asthma management include methylprednisolone, hydrocortisone, and dexamethasone. These medications are typically administered in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital or emergency room, when immediate and intense treatment is required.
Administration of systemic corticosteroids
Systemic corticosteroids are administered intravenously through a vein or intramuscularly through a muscle. This route of administration allows for faster and more efficient absorption of the medication into the body. The dosage and duration of treatment will be determined by your healthcare provider based on the severity of your asthma symptoms.
Long-Acting Beta Agonists (LABA)
Function of LABA
Long-Acting Beta Agonists (LABA) are a type of medication used for long-term control of asthma symptoms. They work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, similar to SABA medications, but with a longer duration of action. LABA medications provide sustained bronchodilation and help prevent asthma symptoms from occurring.
Common LABA medications
Some common LABA medications include formoterol (Foradil, Perforomist), salmeterol (Serevent), and vilanterol (Breo Ellipta). These medications are typically available in inhaler form and are used on a daily basis to maintain control of asthma symptoms. They are often prescribed in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid for added effectiveness.
Administration of LABA
LABA medications are administered through inhalation using an inhaler, similar to other inhaler medications. Follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or included with your medication for proper administration. It is important to note that LABA medications should never be used as monotherapy without an inhaled corticosteroid, as this can increase the risk of severe asthma exacerbations.
Theophylline
Function of theophylline
Theophylline is a type of medication used for long-term control of asthma symptoms. It belongs to the class of medications called bronchodilators, and it works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, thus improving breathing and reducing asthma symptoms.
Common theophylline medications
Common theophylline medications include aminophylline and theophylline itself. These medications are typically available in oral tablet or capsule form, and they are usually taken once or twice a day, depending on the specific medication and dosage prescribed.
Administration of theophylline
Theophylline medications are taken orally, usually with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and frequency of use to maintain optimal control of your asthma symptoms. Regular monitoring of blood levels may be necessary to ensure the medication is at a therapeutic level and to avoid potential side effects.
📅 Last updated:
