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Asthma Patient Info

Asthma Treatment Options

Common Medications and Treatments for Asthma

There are several different classes of drugs that treat asthma.

Asthma treatment is specific to each individual. Side effects and warnings must be taken into consideration.

Long Term Medication/Controllers

Taking a long-term medication is the best way to keep asthma under control on a daily basis and prevent serious attacks.

Drug Category

How It Works

Long Acting Beta Agonists

Contains adrenaline that keeps the breathing passages open for 12 hrs or more.
Typically inhaled.

Inhaled Corticosteroids

Acts locally by concentrating their effects directly within breathing passages.

Leukotriene

These oral medications inhibit the chemical substances that promote an inflammatory response during acute attack.

Methylxanthines

A long-acting bronchodilator.

Quick Relief Medication/Rescue Medicines

Quick relief asthma medications provide just that: fast-acting relief from asthma symptoms. Yet, these medications should only be used occasionally. Talk to your doctor if you are using your inhaler more often than your doctor recommends.

Drug Category

How the Medication Works

Short-acting beta-agonists

Opens breathing passages in minutes.
The effects usually last only 4 hours.

Anticholinergics

Takes slightly longer than beta-agonists to achieve an effect, but has longer lasting relief.

Oral & Intravenous Corticosteroids

Relieves airway inflammation caused by severe attacks.

Allergic Asthma Medications

When asthma is caused by allergies, you may be prescribed different asthma medications to treat the allergy symptoms separately.

Drug Name

How the Medication Works

Omalizumab

Given by injection every 2–4 weeks, this drug works to change the immune system and help alleviate symptoms.

Cromolyn Sodium

Generally inhaled before exposure of allergen.
Does not work once an attack has begun.

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