Asthma medication: what works and how to use it

If you have asthma, picking the right medication and using it properly makes a huge difference. This page cuts through the noise: you’ll get clear info on common inhalers, oral options, biologics, and everyday tips to stay out of trouble.

Types of asthma medication — simple breakdown

There are two main goals: stop attacks fast, and keep inflammation down long-term. Rescue inhalers are for fast relief during an attack. The most common is albuterol (called salbutamol in some countries). It starts working in minutes and you should only use it when needed.

Controller medicines are taken daily to prevent symptoms. The most used controllers are inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) like fluticasone and budesonide. They cut airway inflammation and reduce flare-ups over time. Many people use a combination inhaler that adds a long-acting bronchodilator (LABA) such as formoterol — that helps keep airways open all day.

Oral meds include leukotriene receptor antagonists (montelukast) and, when severe symptoms flare, short courses of oral steroids. For severe, uncontrolled asthma there are biologic injections (omalizumab, mepolizumab and others) that target specific immune pathways. These are prescribed by specialists and often require blood tests to see if you’re a good candidate.

Using medication safely and getting the most benefit

Technique matters. A badly used inhaler can cut its benefit in half. If you use a metered-dose inhaler, use a spacer — it makes delivery easier and reduces side effects like throat irritation. Dry powder inhalers need a strong, steady breath. Ask your nurse or pharmacist to watch your technique at least once.

Keep an asthma action plan. It tells you when to step up treatment, when to call your doctor, and when to head to the ER. Track your rescue inhaler use: needing it more than twice a week usually means your control isn’t good and your controller may need review.

Know the side effects. Inhaled steroids can cause hoarseness and thrush — rinsing your mouth after use helps. Oral steroids help short-term but long courses carry risks like weight gain, mood swings, and higher infection risk. Discuss these openly with your provider.

Thinking about buying meds online? Use licensed pharmacies and always keep a valid prescription. For biologics or complex care, don’t buy online — see a specialist so you get the right tests and follow-up.

If you’re pregnant, elderly, or managing other conditions, medication choices change. Talk with your doctor — many asthma meds are safe in pregnancy but need tailored dosing.

Want a quick next step? Check your inhaler technique, write (or update) an action plan, and book a review if you’re using your rescue inhaler often. Small fixes like these cut attacks and make life easier.