Asthma therapy combines anti-inflammatory controllers - primarily inhaled corticosteroids - with bronchodilators for symptom relief. Current guidance favors combining ICS with fast-acting bronchodilators over SABA-only use for many patients. Severe asthma may be treated with targeted biologics. Inhaler technique, trigger avoidance, vaccinations, and smoking cessation are important. Herbal remedies have limited evidence and can carry safety risks; discuss them with your clinician.

What asthma is and how medicines help

Asthma is a chronic condition of airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness that causes wheeze, cough, breathlessness, and mucus. Medications for asthma work in two complementary ways: they reduce airway inflammation and they relax airway muscle (bronchodilation). Using the right combination early helps prevent worsening and long-term airway changes.

Main classes of asthma medications

Anti-inflammatory (controllers)

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the foundation of long-term control for most people. They reduce airway swelling and lower the risk of exacerbations. Other controller options include leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast), mast cell stabilizers (cromolyn - used less often), low-dose theophylline (rarely used because of side effects), and targeted biologic therapies for severe, allergic or eosinophilic asthma (examples: omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab, dupilumab).

Bronchodilators (relievers and add-ons)

Short-acting beta-agonists (SABA) such as albuterol have traditionally been used for quick relief. Current international guidance (for example, GINA) now recommends against SABA-only treatment for many patients and favors an inhaled corticosteroid combined with a fast-acting bronchodilator (ICS-formoterol) as-needed in many cases. Long-acting bronchodilators - long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) and long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA, e.g., tiotropium) - are used as add-ons when control is inadequate.

Anticholinergic bronchodilators such as ipratropium are useful in some emergency settings.

Acute attacks and delivery devices

Rescue inhalers provide rapid symptom relief. Spacers and properly fitted inhaler technique improve medication delivery and can work as well as nebulizers for many patients. Nebulizers remain useful for very young children, people who cannot use inhalers, or during severe exacerbations.

Long-term strategy and prevention

Long-term control focuses on regular controller therapy, trigger avoidance, and addressing comorbid conditions (allergic rhinitis, obesity, smoking). Annual influenza vaccination and appropriate pneumococcal vaccination are recommended for many people with asthma. Smoking cessation clearly improves outcomes.

Herbs, supplements and safety

Some herbal remedies have been proposed for asthma, but evidence varies and safety matters. Ephedra (ma huang) has known cardiovascular risks and is banned as an over-the-counter dietary supplement in the United States. Chamomile and other botanicals can help inflammation in theory but may trigger allergic reactions in people sensitive to ragweed or related plants. Cayenne and similar irritants can worsen airway symptoms in some people. Discuss any supplement with your clinician before use.

Bottom line

Most asthma treatment relies on anti-inflammatory controllers (especially inhaled corticosteroids) plus bronchodilators for relief. Newer biologic drugs help selected patients with severe disease. Lifestyle measures and vaccination remain important. Always talk with your clinician about the best medication plan and safe use of any herbal product.

FAQs about Asthma Medications

What is the difference between a controller and a reliever?
Controllers reduce airway inflammation (commonly inhaled corticosteroids) and are taken regularly to prevent symptoms. Relievers (short-acting bronchodilators) quickly relax airway muscles during an attack.
Are rescue inhalers still recommended?
Yes. Rescue inhalers provide rapid relief. However, many guidelines now recommend using an inhaled corticosteroid with a fast-acting bronchodilator rather than relying on SABA-only treatment for many patients.
When are biologic drugs used for asthma?
Biologics (for example, omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab, dupilumab) are prescribed for selected patients with severe allergic or eosinophilic asthma who remain uncontrolled on standard therapies.
Are herbal remedies like ephedra safe for asthma?
No. Ephedra has significant cardiovascular risks and is banned as an over-the-counter supplement in the U.S. Other herbs may cause allergic reactions or airway irritation. Discuss any supplement with your clinician.
Do I need a nebulizer instead of an inhaler?
Not usually. A metered-dose inhaler with a spacer often delivers medication effectively. Nebulizers are useful for very young children, people unable to use inhalers, or during severe exacerbations.

News about Asthma Medications

European health regulator recommends approval for GSK's twice-yearly asthma drug - Reuters [Visit Site | Read More]

GSK’s Potential Blockbuster Asthma Drug Gets European Backing - Bloomberg.com [Visit Site | Read More]

GSK’s long-acting asthma med scores in suite of CHMP drug endorsements - Fierce Pharma [Visit Site | Read More]

European health regulator recommends approval for GSK’s twice yearly asthma drug - KFGO [Visit Site | Read More]

European health regulator recommends approval for GSK's twice yearly asthma drug - marketscreener.com [Visit Site | Read More]

Study: Many Patients Switching Biologics Because of Perceived Lack of Efficacy Treating Asthma - Pharmacy Times [Visit Site | Read More]