In this Article

• What are long-term control asthma medications?
• What are quick-relief asthma medications?
• How are inhalers, nebulizers, and pills used as asthma medicines?
• How is theophylline used in the treatment of asthma?
• Are there over-the-counter asthma drugs?
• Can allergy shots be used to treat asthma?
• How frequently will I have to take asthma medicines?
• What are the guidelines for asthma medications?
• Asthma Medications Glossary
• Asthma Medications Index

Are There Over-the-Counter Asthma Drugs?

Yes. The most common over-the-counter asthma drugs are Primatene Mist and Bronkaid. They both work like a bronchodilator, relaxing the muscles around the airways. They provide short-term relief (20-30 minutes), but do not control asthma symptoms or prevent asthma attacks. People with high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease, or heart disease should not take Primatene Mist or Bronkaid.

Unfortunately, many people misuse or overuse these asthma treatments. The over-the-counter drugs are not meant for long-term use, yet some people use them every day to relieve asthma symptoms. Because they do not control asthma, people who take them may not be receiving proper treatment of their asthma.

If you are using an over-the-counter asthma drugs and are still experiencing frequent asthma symptoms, talk to your doctor. And if you are taking prescribed asthma drugs but are using over-the-counter medications occasionally, tell your doctor this as well. You do not want to be taking more medicine than you need.

Can Allergy Shots Be Used to Treat Asthma?

Some recent studies have shown that when you give allergy shots (immunotherapy) to children with allergies, not only do their allergy symptoms improve, but they are also less likely to develop asthma. Also, since many cases of asthma are triggered by allergies, it makes sense that if you control the allergies, you will have fewer asthma attacks.

Ask your doctor if you are a candidate for allergy shots.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• theophylline, Theo-Dur, Respbid, Slo-Bid, Theo-24, Theolair, Uniphyl, Slo-Phyllin -
• Nebulizer for Asthma - Learn how to use a portable asthma home nebulizer (breathing machine), assemble the mask (mouthpiece) and measure the medication for nebulization treatment.
• Asthma - Read about asthma signs and symptoms, statistics, medication, inhalers, and management, and triggers (or what causes an attack). Get the facts about asthma in children and exercise-induced asthma.

Read more Asthma Medications related articles »

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