There are two main types of medicines for treating
asthma.
They are called Rescue (Quick-Relief) Medicines and Controller
Medicines.
Rescue Medicines Everyone with asthma needs a rescue
inhaler (rescue medicine). A rescue inhaler:
- Works very quickly to make it easier for you to
breathe.
- Helps to open your airways.
- Should be used as directed by your doctor.
Controller Medicines Most people with
asthma also need
one or more controller medicines. Some controller medicines
help reduce the swelling inside the airways. Other controller
medicines help relax the muscles that squeeze the airways.
Controller medicines:
- May reduce the number of flare-ups and help you
stay well.
- Are taken each day, as directed by your doctor.
Tips:
- Use your rescue inhaler as directed by your doctor.
- Keep your rescue inhaler with you at all times.
- Take your controller medicine every day as directed
by your doctor, even when you feel fine.
- Sit down with your doctor to develop an
Asthma Action
Plan. It will tell you when and how to take each medicine.
