Asthma/COPD Medications Overview

A type of medication that is inactive when swallowed but becomes active after being broken down in the body, often in the lungs. This can help reduce oral thrush, a common side effect of some medications.

A type of medication used to treat asthma and other inflammatory conditions. They work by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation.

A type of medication used to manage asthma symptoms. Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) work by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. However, they should never be used alone and must always be combined with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).

A group of medications that block the action of leukotrienes, chemicals that contribute to asthma symptoms. Anti-leukotrienes can reduce inflammation and improve breathing.

A specific anti-leukotriene medication that comes in chewable tablets, regular tablets, and granules. Granules should be mixed with solids before administration. It should be taken once a day at bedtime.

A specific anti-leukotriene medication that is taken twice a day on an empty stomach. It is available in 10 mg or 20 mg doses.

A specific anti-leukotriene medication that is taken twice a day with food. Its controlled-release version (Zyflo CR) is also available.

Short-acting beta-agonist inhalers used to relieve asthma symptoms quickly. These medications are typically used for 'rescue' when needed.

MDIs (metered-dose inhalers) are used to deliver a specific amount of medication with each puff. DPIs (dry powder inhalers) use a powder that is inhaled. Both methods deliver medication to the lungs.

Albuterol is a common SABA used to relieve asthma symptoms quickly. It is available in both MDI and DPI forms. The MDI form is most widely used for treating asthma attacks.

The medication delivered by an MDI is more likely to actually reach the lungs when a spacer is used. This is because the spacer gives the medication a chance to slow down and distribute better.

These inhalers, known as inhaled corticosteroids, are the first line of defense for treating persistent asthma. Their primary role is to reduce inflammation in the airways. Most are taken twice a day (BID).

Beclomethasone is an ICS that comes in a ready-to-use inhaler called QVAR RediHaler. This type of inhaler is unique as it does not require shaking, priming, or a spacer.

Budesonide is another ICS available in both DPI (Pulmicort Flexhaler) and nebulizer (Pulmicort Respules) forms. The nebulizer version makes it the only steroid suitable for use in children as young as 1 year old.

Inhaled corticosteroids like fluticasone are often prescribed for long-term asthma management. They are available in both MDI and DPI forms. The DPI form, like Flovent Diskus, offers a more convenient way to administer the medication.

An anti-IgE monoclonal antibody used subcutaneously for allergic asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria. It binds to IgE, preventing it from triggering allergic reactions.

A group of medications that block the interleukin-5 receptor, which is involved in the production of eosinophils. They are used for eosinophilic asthma.

A PDE inhibitor, not typically used first-line or long-term due to side effects and monitoring requirements. Acts like caffeine and is available orally or intravenously.

A class of medications that block muscarinic receptors, making airways wider. Used for COPD and available in inhalers.

A class of long-acting beta agonists (LABA) used for COPD. They are all "terol" medications and have various formulations and combinations for specific needs.

A long-acting beta agonist (LABA) used in combination with other medications for COPD.

A PDE4 inhibitor primarily considered last-line therapy for COPD. It has serious side effects like suicide risk and weight loss.

A class of nasal medications that reduce inflammation and are effective for allergic rhinitis. They are mostly available over-the-counter.

A long-acting muscarinic antagonist used for COPD.

A long-acting muscarinic antagonist used for COPD. It comes in a DPI capsule form with a special mechanism.