Consider long-term control medications like inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). These reduce inflammation in your airways, preventing asthma attacks. Common examples include fluticasone (Flovent) and budesonide (Pulmicort).
If ICS alone isn’t enough, your doctor might add a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA), such as salmeterol (Serevent) or formoterol (Foradil). LABAs relax your airways, making breathing easier. They’re usually combined with ICS in a single inhaler for convenience.
Biologics represent a newer class of medications targeting specific immune system pathways involved in asthma. Omalizumab (Xolair), mepolizumab (Nucala), and dupilumab (Dupixent) are examples. These are usually reserved for severe asthma not well-controlled by other treatments and require a doctor’s careful assessment.
Leukotriene modifiers, like montelukast (Singulair) and zafirlukast (Accolate), block the action of leukotrienes, substances that contribute to airway inflammation and constriction. They may be helpful for mild to moderate asthma or in combination with other therapies.
Theophylline is another oral medication that can relax airways and reduce inflammation. It’s often used as an add-on therapy, particularly for patients who don’t respond adequately to other treatments.
Remember: Always discuss any medication changes with your doctor. They will assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. Self-treating asthma can be dangerous.
