According to the experts at Mayo Clinic, asthma is a condition that causes the airways in your lungs to become inflamed and constricted. In the process, your airways produce excess mucus, blocking them, preventing them from receiving air. While not curable, it is a condition that is manageable. The most commonly prescribed medications are inhaled steroids, especially for those requiring long-term asthma treatment. There are also oral steroids, which are effective, but are better for short-term use due to the possible side effects.
Advair
An inhaled steroid, Advair works by relaxing the muscles of your airway. According to Drugs.com, it is used to prevent asthma attacks and the flare up frequently associated with it; it cannot be used to stop an asthma attack once it has begun though. Advair should be taken exactly as prescribed; if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed dose as this could result in an overdose.
Common side effects of Advair include headache, nausea, dry mouth, stuffy nose or feeling hoarse. More serious side effects which require you to call your doctor immediately include tightness in your chest or wheezing, feeling restless, chest pain, fever, chills, blurred vision or your asthma symptoms becoming worse.
Flovent
Flovent is a corticosteroid which works by preventing inflammation due to exposure to irritants and allergens such as dust, pet dander and cigarette smoke. It is not effective in treating an acute asthma attack; a fast-acting asthma medication is needed in these cases. According to Drugs.com, Flovent should only be taken in the doses prescribed. It is the liquid form of the steroid fluticasone which you inhale as a spray into your mouth and lungs. Drugs.com recommends washing any products associated with Flovent to prevent your risk of developing a yeast infection in your mouth.
Common side effects include headache, stuffy nose, sores on the inside of your mouth or on your lips and a deepened voice. Call your doctor immediately if you experience side effects such as feeling tired, weak, experience any nausea or vomiting, show any flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills or body aches, blurred vision or a worsening of your asthma symptoms.
Prednisone
An oral steroid, Prednisone works by preventing substances from being released in your body which causes the inflammation responsible for asthma attacks. Prednisone comes in both liquid and pill form, both of which should be taken exactly as prescribed. For the liquid form, Drugs.com recommends using a special dose-measuring spoon or cup rather than a teaspoon or tablespoon to ensure you do not take more than prescribed. When you miss a dose, wait until your next scheduled dose rather taking two doses at once; this prevents an overdose from occurring.
Common side effects include insomnia, acne, headache, increased sweating, dizziness, nausea and stomach pain. More serious side effects requiring immediate contact with your doctor includes vision problems, depression, swelling, rapid weight gain, bloody stools and coughing up blood.
Medrol
Medrol, like Prednisone, is another oral steroid which prevents asthma attacks by preventing the release of substances within the body that cause inflammation of your airways. Take Medrol exactly as prescribed and do not stop taking it suddenly as it may result in undesirable withdrawal symptoms.
Common side effects of Medrol include changes in location of body fat, headaches, insomnia, slower healing times for wounds, bloating and nausea. More serious side effects include shortness of breath, unusual thoughts or behavior, seizures, chest pain and confusion.
