Medication

There are a variety of different treatments and medications for asthma. It is important to take your medication as prescribed. Your GP, nurse and pharmacist can all help you achieve good control of your asthma symptoms and discuss your medications. The following is an outline of medications used to treat asthma.

Maintenance and reliever therapy (MART)

MART is an asthma treatment using a single combination inhaler instead of separate controller and reliever inhalers.

Preventer/controller inhalers

Controller medications (previously known as ‘preventer’ medications) reduce inflammation of the airways over time and lower the risk of a severe attack occurring.

Combination inhalers

These inhalers contain a mixture of preventer/controller medication with a form of slow-acting reliever medication.

Reliever inhalers

Reliever inhalers are used to widen the airways and reduce asthma symptoms in the short term. They are a key part of treating an asthma attack.

Spacer devices

Spacer devices ensure the person with asthma gets the maximum benefit from their medication and helps direct it to where it's needed in the lungs.

Steroid tablets

What steroid tablets are and why they’re prescribed, the difference between steroid tablets and inhaled steroids, side effects, asthma control, and when and how to seek help if you’re concerned.

Other treatments

Some people with asthma may find they need extra or 'add-on' therapies alongside their preventer medication to keep their asthma properly controlled.

Nebulisers

A nebuliser is a device which changes liquid medication into a mist which can be breathed in through a mask or mouthpiece.

Complimentary therapies

Many asthma patients have heard of, and often try, complimentary treatments and therapies to improve their asthma outside of their prescribed medication.

Need help?

Speak to our asthma nurse or physio

Our asthma nurse can provide FREE advice and support if you have any questions or worries about your or your loved one’s asthma.

Our Senior Physiotherapist can help you exercise safely.

Freephone: 1800 44 54 64 WhatsApp Message: 086 059 0132 Book a nurse call