Asthma Medications: Short-acting and Allergy

In addition to the long-term control asthma medications, there are also short-acting or quick relief medications and medications specific to those whose asthma symptoms are triggered by allergies.

Short-acting or quick relief medications for asthma are often referred to as rescue medications. These medications are not taken regularly. They are intended to be taken as needed, when there is an acute episode, such as an asthma attack. They work very fast and help to quickly restore one's breathing to normal.

There are several types of medications that fit in this category. The first type is short-acting beta-2 agonists. These are bronchodilators, which mean they dilate, or open up the airways and help clear away the mucus so the person can breathe more easily. Albuterol is a very commonly prescribed medication that fits in this category.

These medications are taken via a metered-dose inhaler. Pressing down on the inhaler releases a fine mist of the medication, which is propelled by a chemical agent. The individual must simultaneously inhale while the medication is released for the medication to go directly into the lungs. So some hand-lung coordination is required to use these. These medications are effective for only a few hours and will not prevent further asthma episodes.

Ipratropium (Atrovent) is another type of short-acting medication that is sometimes prescribed for asthma. It is an anti-cholinergic medication that works as a bronchodilator. It also comes in the form of an inhaler.

Another type of short-acting medication is corticosteroids. These may be taken orally or intravenously for an acute episode. However, they do not work as quickly as the bronchodilators. They are also sometimes used for people who have severe asthma. Prednisone and hydrocortisone are two types of corticosteroids. The down side of taking these on a regular basis is that they have potentially serious side effects, including hypertension and cataracts.

The third category of medications prescribed for asthma is for those whose symptoms are triggered primarily by allergies. These may include immunotherapy. This involves getting shots regularly which help to build up immunity to the particular allergens which act as triggers. Usually the individual starts by getting injections weekly and in time may decrease the frequency to only once or twice a month.

For some individuals who have allergy-induced asthma that is difficult to treat, a medication called Xolair is sometimes prescribed. It is also given by injection and contains Anti-IgE monoclonal antibodies. Xolair works by inhibiting the effects of these antibodies which your body produces to attack certain types of allergens such as dust mites and pollens. By doing so it helps decrease the risk of having an allergy attack.

Always work with your doctor to determine the best combination of asthma medications for you. With proper medication many individuals with asthma are able to live normal lives by keeping their symptoms under control.