Asthma is respiratory disorder characterized by wheezing; usually of allergic originIn treatment - inhaled medications are generally preferred over tablet or liquid medicines, which are swallowed (oral medications). Inhaled medications act directly on the airway surface and airway muscles where the asthma problems initiate. Absorption of inhaled medications into the rest of the body is minimal. Therefore, adverse side effects are fewer as compared to oral medications. Inhaled medications include beta-2 agonists, anticholinergics, corticosteroids, and cromolyn sodium. Oral medications include aminophylline, leukotriene antagonists, beta-2 agonists, and corticosteroid tablets.

one of the first medications used for asthma was adrenaline (epinephrine). Adrenaline has a rapid onset of action in opening the airways (bronchodilation). It is still often used in emergency situations for asthma. Unfortunately, adrenaline has many side effects, including rapid heart rate, a sense of panic,headache, nausea, restlessness, and vomiting

Answered by Maria Lobo , an ibibo Citizen, at 2:36 PM on November 21, 2008

Asthma is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. But medicines and lifestyle changes can help control the symptoms. One way to help relieve asthma is to avoid things in the environment that make symptoms worse. A number of types of medicines are also used to treat asthma. Most work by opening the lung airways and reducing inflammation.

The medicines used to treat asthma fall into two groups: quick-relief and long-term control.
Quick-Relief

Quic k relief medicines are used only when needed. They should be taken when symptoms are getting worse to prevent a full-blown asthma attack. They can also be used to stop attacks once they have started. These medicines relieve symptoms in minutes. Short-acting inhaled bronchodilators (albuterol and pirbuterol) are two commonly used quick relief medicines. They quickly relax tightened muscles around the airways.
Long-Term Control

Long-term control medicines or controller medicines are taken every day, usually over a long period of time. Over time, these medicines relieve symptoms and prevent asthma attacks in those with mild or moderate persistent asthma.

These medications help control inflammation in the lungs. To be effective, they must be used every day. These medicines are not intended to relieve symptoms immediately. Some may even take a few weeks to have their full effect.

Some long-term control medicines include:

* Cromolyn and nedocromil -- These inhaled medicines keep airways from swelling when a person comes in contact with a trigger.
* Corticosteroids -- These medicines can be inhaled or taken in a pill form. They can prevent and decrease swelling in the airways. Corticosteroids can also decrease the amount of mucus.
* Anti-leukotrienes -- These medicines come in a pill. They open the airways, control swelling and inflammation, and reduce mucus.
* Long-acting beta 2 bronchodilators -- Over time, these inhaled medicines help relieve symptoms. They are often combined with anti-inflammatory medicines

Staying away from triggers, taking your medicine consistently, and regular visits to the doctor will help you take control of asthma.

Answered by Alok , an ibibo Master, at 5:00 PM on November 19, 2008