It is not uncommon for people with asthma to take long-term control medicines on a daily basis. these are medicines that you take even when you do not have any symptoms. There are different kinds of long-term medications. These include: inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta agonists, combination inhalers, leukotriene inhibitors, as well as theophylline.
Inhaled Corticosteroids:
These are anti-inflammatory medications that are the most effective and commonly used to treat asthma. These medications work to reduce the swelling within your airways. Inhaled corticosteroids most often need to be used for several days to weeks before their maximum effect is achieved. Types of inhaled corticosteroids include:
Asmanex (Monmetasone)
Ciclesonide (Alvesco)
Beclomethasone ( Qvar)
Fluticasone (Flovent)
Budesonide (Pulmicort)
When taking corticosteroids it is important to remember to rinse your mouth with water after each use. This will help minimize such side effects as throat irritation and oral yeast infections.
Long-Acting Beta Agonists:
These medications open narrow airways by relaxing bronchial muscles. They can last at least 12 hours and control moderate to severe asthma. They are also used to control nighttime asthma symptoms. Long-Acting Beta Agonists are always used in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid. Examples of Long-Acting Beta Agonists include:
Serevent (Salmeterol)
Foradil (Fomoterol)
Combination Inhalers:
Combination inhalers contain both corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists. They work together to relieve the inflammation and muscle tightening of the airways. Examples of these medications include:
Advair (Fluticasone and Salmeterol)
Symbicort (Budesonide and Formoterol)
Dulera (Mometasone and Formoterol)
Leukotriene Inhibitors:
These medications block the effects of immune system chemicals called leukotrienes. These chemicals cause asthma symptoms. Leukotriene inhibitors help prevent these symptoms for up to 24 hours. Examples of these medicines include:
Singulair (Montelukast)
Accolate (Zafirlukast)
Zyflo (Zileuton)
Theophylline:
This medicine comes as a pill and is used to relax the bronchial muscles of the airways. It helps with nighttime asthma symptoms. Sometimes regular blood tests are needed to make sure the correct dosage is being acheived.