Articles
Asthma medications: Know your options
Content
Types of asthma medications
Long-term control medications
Inhaled corticosteroids
Leukotriene modifiers
Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs)
Long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs)
Combination inhalers:
Corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists
Quick-relief medications
Ipratropium
Theophylline
Oral corticosteroids for serious asthma attacks
Medications for asthma triggered by allergies
Biologics
Biologic for allergic asthma
Biologics for eosinophilic asthma
Biologic for either eosinophilic asthma or allergic asthma
Making the most of your asthma medications
Types of asthma medications
Long-term control medications
Inhaled corticosteroids
Leukotriene modifiers
Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs)
Long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs)
Combination inhalers:
Corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists
Quick-relief medications
Ipratropium
Theophylline
Oral corticosteroids for serious asthma attacks
Medications for asthma triggered by allergies
Biologics
Biologic for allergic asthma
Biologics for eosinophilic asthma
Biologic for either eosinophilic asthma or allergic asthma
Making the most of your asthma medications
Leukotriene modifiers
These medications block the effects of leukotrienes, immune system chemicals that cause asthma symptoms. Leukotriene modifiers can help prevent symptoms for up to 24 hours. Examples include:
- Montelukast (Singulair)
- Zafirlukast (Accolate)
- Zileuton (Zyflo)
In rare cases, montelukast is linked to psychological reactions, such as agitation, aggression, hallucinations, depression and suicidal thinking. See your health care provider right away if you have any unusual reaction.