Asthma medications: what you need to know

August 13, 9:42 PMChildren's Health ExaminerMaria Russell

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Nebulizer by Mrs. W. March 23, 2007

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease in which the lower airway becomes inflamed and narrowed. It affects millions of children in the United States. Untreated asthma in children can lead to worsening lung disease, increased hospital visits, increased costs, and an increased number of days missed out of school.

Several medications are available to treat asthma.  Your healthcare provider may prescribe one or more to manage your child's asthma.

Bronchodilators relax and open (dilate) the lower airway. Bronchodilators may be inhaled, taken by mouth, or given intravenously. A common inhaled bronchodilator is albuterol sulfate.  According to the American Lung Association, inhaled bronchodilators have few side effects when used as directed.  Theophylline is a common oral or intravenous bronchodilator.

Corticosteroids decrease lower airway swelling.  The American Lung Association (ALA) says that corticosteroids must be taken regularly in order to work and should be used with a spacer (inhaler attachment).  Common corticosteroids are cromolyn and nedocromil.  During acute attacks your healthcare provider may prescribe an oral or intravenous corticosteroid. 

Leukotriene Modifiers Leukotrienes are naturally produced by the body and can cause increased mucus production, and increased lung obstruction.  Leukotriene modifiers block excess mucus production.  A common leukotriene modifier is Singulair.

Adherence to your child's asthma care regimen can decrease the number of acute attacks he experiences.  If, during an asthma attack, your child does not get relief from treatment or gets worse call 911.