Quick-relief medications
Quick-relief drugs are also known as short-acting beta agonists (SABA). They dilate the lungs by facilitating relaxation of airway muscles. They are usually called rescue medications. They can relieve worsening symptoms or prevent an asthma attack. They usually start working within minutes and are active for 4 to 6 hours. These drugs should not be used daily.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend using a quick-relief inhaler before exercise to help prevent shortness of breath and other asthma symptoms. People who use these medications may experience side effects, such as palpitations and jitteriness.
Examples of quick-relief medications include:
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Albuterol (ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, others)
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Levalbuterol (Xopenex HFA)
If you experience mild or infrequent symptoms or if you have exercise-induced asthma, your doctor may recommend one of these drugs to manage your symptoms. Most people with persistent asthma symptoms also need an inhaled corticosteroid or other long term drugs to manage their symptoms. Your asthma is not under control if you have to use your inhaler more often than your doctor recommends. Contact your healthcare provider to adjust your therapy if your symptoms persist after using quick-relief drugs.