l tubes. Oral bronchodilators include theophylline; theophyllines counterpart, aminophylline, is used through a needle in the vein for severe episodes of asthma. During severe, acute attacks of asthma, injections of epinephrine are given just under the patients skin. Epinephrine has a quick, but short lasting effect of bronchodilation.Most asthma patients are given bronchodilators such as abuterol that are used in a mist form that is inhaled from either a special inhaler device or an aerosol machine. Some patients are instructed to use their bronchodilator at regular intervals, while others may just be told to use the inhaler if they notice the beginning of an asthma attack. The inhaled medications are quick acting because they are directly applied to the constricted airways.Another type of treatment is called Anti-Inflammatory drugs. Anti- Inflammatory drugs reduce the swelling and inflammation of the airways. These drugs can be inhaled or taken in pill form. Two types of anti-inflammatory drugs that are prescribed for asthma patients: Chromolyn sodium and Corticosteroids. Chromolyn sodium is also prescribed for people with allergies, and it has few side effects. Oral corticosteriods are very effective in treating asthma, but should be reserved for severe cases, due to their serious side effects. (Cramer 5) Short-term side effects include increased appetite, weight gain, hypertension, and fluid retention. Over the long-term corticosteriods may cause osteoporosis, cataracts, and impaired immune response. These side effects usually preclude the use of corticosteriods for long periods of time. In fact, short courses of steroids are preferred. These steroid bursts are given over about a weeks time and then discontinued, as a treatment for a sudden sever asthma attack, perhaps brought on by exposure to an allergen or viral infection. Inhaled corticosteroids have few side effects. These medications are also prescribed for allergy patients. ...
