With a combination of the two, most people with asthma can find relief and live normal lives. Bronchodilators relax the smooth muscles that line the airway. This makes the airways open wider, letting more air pass through them. These drugs are used mainly to relieve sudden asthma attacks or to prevent attacks that might come on after exercise. They may be taken by mouth, injected or inhaled.
Corticosteroids block the inflammation that narrows the airways.
Used regularly, these drugs will help prevent asthma attacks. Those attacks that do occur will be less severe. However, corticosteroids cannot stop an attack that is already underway. These drugs may be taken by mouth, injected or inhaled. Cromolyn also is taken regularly to prevent asthma attacks and may be used alone or with other asthma medicines.