Drugs used in asthma

The drugs used in the management of asthma fall into two broad 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 systemic corticosteroids
  • cromones
  • leukotriene antagonists
  • methotrexate
  • long acting inhaled beta-adrenergic agonists in combination with inhaled corticosteroids
• relievers:
  • aim is to reverse bronchoconstriction and relieve the symptoms quickly
  • used on as needed basis
  • agents include:
    • rapid acting inhaled beta-adrenergic agonists
    • short 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) 2023. Global strategy for asthma management and prevention
2. British Thoracic Society (BTS)/Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) 2019. British Guideline on the Management of Asthma. A national clinical guideline.