drugs used in asthma

Last reviewed 01/2018

The drugs used in the management of asthma fall into two braod categories:

• controllers

• aim is to control clinical symptoms, and reduce future risks such as exacerbations and decline in lung function
• taken daily on long term basis 
• agents include:
• inhaled and system glucocorticosteroids
• cromones
• leukotriene antagonists
• methotrexate
• long acting inhaled beta-adrenergic agonists in combination with inhaled glucocorticosteorid

• relievers:
• aim is to reverse bronchoconstriction and relive the symptoms quickly
• used on as needed basis
• agents include:
  • rapid acting inhaled beta-adrenergic agonists
• shoet acting theophylline
• inhaled anticholinergics
• short acting oral beta-adrenergic agonists

Note:

• before initiating a new drug therapy, practitioners should check adherence with existing therapies, inhaler technique and eliminate trigger factors
• β-blockers, including eye drops, are contraindicated in patients with asthma (2)

Reference:

• (1) Global Initiative For Asthma (GINA) 2016. Global strategy for asthma management and prevention  
• (2) British Thoracic Society (BTS)/Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) 2016. British Guideline on the Management of Asthma. A national clinical guideline