Short-acting Bronchodilators for Immediate Relief

Medications that quickly open swollen airways and ease breathing in conditions like asthma and COPD.

Short-acting Bronchodilators FAQ

What are short-acting bronchodilators?

Short-acting bronchodilators are called quick-acting, reliever, or rescue medications. You might hear them called rescue inhalers. These bronchodilators relieve acute asthma symptoms or attacks very quickly by opening your airways. The rescue inhalers are best for treating sudden asthma symptoms.

What is a bronchodilator used for?

In the treatment of asthma, the medicine inside inhalers can be divided into: Relievers (short-acting bronchodilators). Preventers (steroid inhalers). Long-acting bronchodilators. Need an emergency inhaler? These medicines are called bronchodilators as they widen (dilate) the airways (bronchi).

Can short-acting bronchodilators be used in an asthma nebulizer?

Short-acting bronchodilators can also be used in an asthma nebulizer in the form of a liquid to treat an asthma attack at home. Overuse of short-acting bronchodilators, whether it’s a rescue inhaler, in tablets, or in liquid, is a sign of uncontrolled asthma that needs better treatment.

Which bronchodilator is best for bronchitis?

For initial empirical treatment, offer a short-acting bronchodilator as required to relieve breathlessness and exercise limitation. This can either be a short-acting beta2 agonist (SABA) or a short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA).

What are the different types of bronchodilator inhalers?

The main types include: For most people with COPD, short-acting bronchodilator inhalers are the first treatment used. Bronchodilators are medicines that make breathing easier by relaxing and widening your airways. Short-acting inhalers should be used when you feel breathless, up to a maximum of 4 times a day.