Drugs for Asthma and Allergies III
ICS: inhaled corticosteroids are considered the most effective medications for long-term control of persistent asthma. They offer a good asthma control with minimal effect on the rest of the body with normal doses.
* Minor side effects include the use of corticosteroid inhalers are hoarseness and thrush (a fungal infection of the mouth and throat). It is less probable that both problems appear if you gargle with water after use.
* Prolonged use of inhaled corticosteroids in children may cause a transient reduction in growth velocity, however, this problem tends to be minimal (about half an inch in the first year of use, usually without a continuous effect). In most cases, the benefits of controlling asthma is greater than the potential for any adverse effects.
Anti-leukotrienes: Many cells involved in inflammation of the airways produce powerful chemicals in the body called leukotrienes). Leukotrienes are responsible for increased inflammation that narrows the airway muscles and inflames the lining of those conduits.
* These drugs are used mainly for control in patients with moderate persistent asthma and in combination with inhaled corticosteroids in moderate to severe disease.
* One of them has also been approved to treat allergic rhinitis (montelukast).
Bronchodilators: The smooth muscle surrounding the airways may narrow in asthmatics and breathing difficult. These drugs relax the smooth muscle, improving air flow and easing breathing. There are several classes of bronchodilators to treat asthma.
Beta-agonist bronchodilators relax the smooth muscle surrounding the bronchial tubes.
* Beta-agonist bronchodilators fast-acting drugs are used as immediate relief. They come to inhale, liquid, injection and pills (albuterol and levalbuterol are two examples.) The effect of these agents usually occurs within minutes and lasts for 4 to 6 hours.
* Bronchodilators beta-agonists (salmeterol and formoterol) are used for long-term control of asthma. The effect of these medications can last up to 12 hours.
* The side effects of this class include nervousness, tachycardia, anxiety, insomnia and, rarely, headaches.
* The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Public Health Advisory on beta-agonists, long-acting. Indicating that these agents may increase the risk of severe asthma attacks that threaten life in some patients. You should not change your medications without consulting your doctor. Ask your doctor about the possible benefits and risks of these agents to control their asthma.