Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that causes the airways to become sore and swollen. Sensitivities to external triggers such as pollen, animal dander and perfumes can cause the airways to constrict making breathing difficult. Typical asthma treatments include fast-acting inhalers as well as preventative inhalers. Although these medications intend to improve asthma symptoms, some have side effects that can prove problematic. Consult a physician with any concerns or issues with current asthma inhaler medications.
Budesonide and Formoterol Inhalation
Budesonide and formoterol inhalers are relatively new additions to the inhalation market. Budesonide is a steroid that significantly reduces inflammation in the body, whereas formoterol is a bronchodilator that relaxes bronchial muscles for improvement in breathing, states the Drug Information website. These inhalers may cause worsening of asthmatic symptoms, including increasing occurrences of wheezing, throat irritation or other breathing problems. Recent studies of formoterol confirm that this compound may increase the risk of asthma-related death. Many doctors recommend using long-term corticosteroid therapy in lieu of formoterol in the maintenance of asthma.
Fluticasone and Salmeterol Inhalation
Fluticasone is a steroid, and salmeterol is a bronchodilator. Together these compounds prevent the release of the body's chemicals that cause inflammation leading to constricted breathing, according to the Drug Information website. This inhaler helps to prevent flare-ups and is not intended as a fast-acting inhaler. Warnings of this medication include bronchospasms in which wheezing, chest tightness and troubled breathing occurs. There are also reports of fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors and worsening asthma symptoms. Salmeterol may also increase the risk of asthma-related death, according to GlaxoSmithKline, a leading manufacturer of asthma inhalers.
Albuterol Inhalation
Albuterol is a fast-acting bronchodilator that quickly relaxes airway muscles to increase the flow of air to the lungs, according to the Drug Information website. The primary use is to relieve the rapid onset of asthma-related bronchial constriction caused by things such as allergies and exercise. Persistent use of albuterol can increase the risk of asthma-related death, especially if an individual fails to adhere to prescribed dosing. Chest pain, bronchospasms and uneven heart beats are among the common side effects and warnings of this medication. Dangerously high blood pressure, which includes severe headache, blurred vision and a buzzing in the ears, can cause severe medical conditions.
