Asthma Medication
This can be grouped into “Relievers” and “Preventers”.
“Relievers”
Short-acting B2 Agonists
Rapid onset in minutes and lasts a few hours -for the rapid relief of symptoms,
i.e. Salbutamol (ventolin) 120 to 200 micrograms per puff and Terbutaline (Bricanyl) 250-500 micrograms per puff.
Side effects:
- Shaking.
- Palpitations.
- Fast heart beat.
Long-acting B2 Agonists
Maximum effect after 2 hours and lasts for 12 hours - very effective in night and exercise-induced symptoms.
For example Salmeterol (Serevent) 50 to 100 micrograms twice daily and Formoterol (Foradil or Oxis) 12 to 24 micrograms twice a day.
Side effects:
- Shaking.
- Palpitations.
- Rash.
- Paradoxical wheeziness.
