Doctors usually prefer inhaled bronchodilators because they are delivered directly to the lungs, and because they use 1,000 times less medicine than oral forms. Bronchodilators are potent drugs. If overused, they can cause dangerous side effects, such as high blood pressure. If you are using your bronchodilator too often, talk to your doctor. Your asthma needs to be controlled better.
Oral bronchodilators are available in liquid, tablet, or capsule form.
They are frequently prescribed for people who cannot tolerate inhaled medication or who suffer from chronic asthma. In severe cases, inhaled or oral corticosteroids may be prescribed, but a doctor needs to monitor this treatment carefully because of serious side effects. Emergencies may require an injection or inhaled dose of epinephrine to help open the lungs' airways. Anti-inflammatory medications, including mast cell stabilizers and inhaled corticosteroids, are used to prevent asthma symptoms and lead to better control. Leukotriene modifiers are newer asthma drugs that improve airflow and reduce asthma symptoms.