Asthma treatments: what works and how to use it

Got asthma and want simple, useful advice? This page breaks down the treatments you’ll meet at the doctor, how they work, and small things you can do every day to breathe easier.

Quick treatment guide

Think of asthma meds in two groups: relievers and controllers. Relievers are short-acting bronchodilators like albuterol (brand names include Proair). They open airways fast during attacks. Controllers reduce inflammation over time. The main controllers are inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Many people use a controller daily and keep a reliever for flares.

Other options: combination inhalers (ICS + long-acting bronchodilator), leukotriene modifiers (oral pills like montelukast), short courses of oral steroids for bad attacks, and biologic injections for severe, hard-to-control asthma (examples include omalizumab or anti-IL-5 drugs). Your doctor will match treatment to how often you have symptoms and what tests show.

Using inhalers the right way — a few must-do steps

Bad technique makes good meds useless. Follow these steps every time: if it’s an MDI (press-and-breathe), shake the inhaler, breathe out, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, press once and inhale slowly, hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out. Wait a minute between puffs. If you use a spacer, keep it — spacers put more medicine into your lungs and less in your mouth.

For ICS, rinse your mouth and spit after use to lower the chance of thrush. Keep track of doses so you don’t run out mid-season.

Want to cut costs? Generic albuterol is usually cheaper than brand names. Look for coupons, pharmacy discount programs, or manufacturer savings pages. Our Proair savings guide shows easy ways people find lower prices and manage refill costs without skipping meds.

Watch for side effects so you catch problems early. Relievers can cause jitters or a fast heartbeat. Inhaled steroids may cause throat irritation or hoarseness. Report persistent side effects to your clinician — often a small change fixes it.

Create a simple asthma action plan with your doctor. That plan should list daily meds, what to do when symptoms rise, when to add oral steroids, and clear emergency steps. Keep a peak flow meter if your asthma is variable — it gives a number-based warning before symptoms worsen.

Reduce triggers: quit smoking, avoid secondhand smoke, control indoor dust and mold, and time outdoor exercise on low-pollen days. Get your flu shot each year and stay current with other vaccines your doctor recommends.

If you find symptoms getting worse despite good medication use, or you need reliever inhalers more than twice a week, call your doctor. Severe attacks with trouble speaking, walking, or very low oxygen need emergency care right away.

AccessRx.su collects clear guides and practical tips so you can manage meds confidently. Use this page to spot your options, sharpen your inhaler routine, and find smart ways to lower costs while staying safe.