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:
beta-2 adrenergic agonists in asthma