ASTHMA QUICK-RELIEF MEDICATIONS

Quick-relief medications are used to relieve asthma symptoms when they happen.

Short-acting beta-agonists — Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) are a type of "bronchodilator" medication. They relieve symptoms rapidly by temporarily relaxing the muscles around narrowed airways, allowing more air to get through. These medications are sometimes referred to as "quick-acting relievers" or "rescue medication"; some people also refer to them as "emergency inhalers." People with intermittent asthma, the mildest form of asthma, will require treatment with SABAs only occasionally.

SABAs include Salbutamol (ASTHALIN) , Levosalbutamol (LEVOLIN)

SABAs like Salbutamol and Levosalbutamol are meant to be used as needed for relief of asthma symptoms, or preventively prior to an activity that is known to provoke symptoms (for example, 5 to 20 minutes before exercise). There is no benefit to using them on a regular, scheduled basis. If your symptoms are consistently occurring on more than two days per week, you should discuss your treatment plan with your health care provider. Other medications are more effective for controlling persistent symptoms.

Inhaled steroids with formoterol — Formoterol is a type of medication called a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA). It starts to work quickly, like SABAs, but the effects last longer. It always comes together with an inhaled steroid medication that reduces inflammation in the airways . Various inhalers that combine inhaled steroids with formoterol are available (sample brand names: BUDAMATE, FORACORT, COMBIHALE FB, FOMTIDE). They are often used as daily controller medicines but can be used for quick relief of asthma symptoms as well.