People with asthma suffer from symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. There are medications that offer long-term control over these symptoms and keep asthma attacks from occurring, according to MayoClinic.com. These medications need to be taken on a daily basis, and they include inhaled corticosteroids which are anti-inflammatory drugs that represent the most effective asthma therapy available.
Fluticasone
According to Drugs.com, fluticasone is a prescription medication that acts as an anti-inflammatory in the nasal passages. It is supplied as an oral inhalation aerosol for the long-term control of asthma symptoms and for prevention of asthma attacks in patients 4-years of age and older. Patients should use the medication twice daily, but should be aware that the full benefit of the drug may not be realized for one to two weeks or longer. Side effects of fluticasone therapy may include headache, dizziness, agitation, anxiety, viral skin infections, throat irritation, sinus infection, hoarseness, laryngitis, gastrointestinal discomfort and muscular pain.
Budesonide
Budesonide is an anti-inflammatory medication that doctors prescribe for daily use in patients who have asthma. When administered via the inhalation route, it can significantly lower the frequency and intensity of asthma attacks, according to the MayoClinic.com. Once an asthma attack has begun, however, budesonide can't stop it or address its symptoms. This drug is a corticosteroid that works by blocking inflammation in the lungs thereby mitigating the effects of an asthma attack.
Budesonide is supplied as a powder that the patient breathes into the lungs from an inhaler placed into the mouth. It is suitable for adults and children 6-years of age and older. Patients should be aware that budesonide may compromise the immune system and lead to infections or sores in the mouth and throat. Prolonged use of this drug may result in a decrease of bone mineral density which can lead to osteoporosis. Other side effects may include body aches, chills, congestion, cough, diarrhea, fever, headache, joint pain, loss of appetite, nausea, trouble sleeping or swallowing and unusual weakness.
Ciclesonide
According to the National Health Service in England, ciclesonide is a steroid medication used for the treatment of asthma. It is in the steroid class of drugs and works by reducing inflammation in the air passages of the lungs. Patients take ciclesonide by oral inhalation, and it can prevent asthma attacks when used every day. It can't treat an asthma attack that is in progress. For this, the patient must use a fast-acting inhaler that contains a bronchodilator drug. Doctors usually try to find the minimum dose of ciclesonide that can effectively control the patient's condition. Ciclesonide is not suitable for patients who have a liver problem or for those who have an infection. Side effects may include dry mouth, infections in the mouth, eczema, headaches, hoarse voice and nausea.
