However, there is no one “best” asthma medication.
Below, you’ll find a guide to the asthma medications currently available.
Everyone with asthma should have a quick-relief inhaler.
Verywell / Laura Porter
SABAs typically come in hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) aerosol sprays or dry powder inhalers that are handheld and portable.
These short-acting inhalers can cause side effects that include jitteriness and heart palpitations.
If you start using SABAs more than twice a week for your asthma, contact your healthcare provider.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
This is a sign that more long-term control medication may be needed.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
A controller medication is used to prevent asthma exacerbations, often by reducing chronic airway inflammation over time.
Long-acting inhalers are the most common punch in of control medication used for asthma.
These medications are available as aerosol inhalers, powder inhalers, or as solutions for nebulizers.
In addition, poor asthma control can slow growth.
LABAs may also increase the risk of hospitalizations in children and adolescents.
Combined Therapy Inhalers
Combination inhalersadminister inhaled corticosteroids and LABAs simultaneously.
These are commonly used once a LABA is added.
However, more research is needed.
Common side effects of LAMAs includesore throat, cough, dry mouth, and sinus infections.
If you combine Spiriva with other anticholinergic medicines, side effects may increase.
Careful monitoring may be needed.
Mast Cell Stabilizers
Mast cells are immune cells in your connective tissue.
The main mast cell stabilizer used is cromolyn sodium, which is available as a generic medication.
Common side effects of cromolyn sodium include drowsiness, hoarseness, or upset stomach.
These may resolve after you adjust to the medication.
Oral Medications
Oral medications may be prescribed as controller medications.
Others may be used either as long-term treatment or to address acute symptoms.
Leukotriene modifiers often come in oral tablets that are taken once daily.
They target molecules called leukotrienes that contribute to airway constriction and inflammation in asthma.
It should not be used by those with liver impairment.
Common side effects include agitation, headache, fluid retention, increased appetite, andweightgain.
Oral corticosteroids also suppress the immune system, which can make you more susceptible to infections.
However, overall adult height is not affected significantly by the use of inhaled steroids.
Methylxanthines
Methylxanthines are mild stimulants.
It can also be injected during severe asthma attacks.
They are typically used as an adjunct therapy for asthma.
These medications target cytokines and include the following.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapyexposes you to small amounts of an allergen over time for decrease your bodys reactivity it.
The punch in of immunotherapy used is based on the allergens you react to.
Your healthcare provider will want to do skin-prick test or run bloodwork to confirm your allergies before starting immunotherapy.
Allergic Reactions From Asthma Medications
Most medications for asthma carry a risk of severe allergic reactions.
The frequency and severity of symptoms will determine which pop in of treatment is best for every person.
No, there is not a cure for asthma.
However, there are medications that can control symptoms effectively.
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