Which medication is typically used during acute exacerbations of asthma?

The use of short-term oral corticosteroids during acute exacerbations of asthma is well-supported in clinical practice. These medications are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that help to rapidly reduce airway inflammation and improve symptoms during an asthma attack. Acute exacerbations often involve significant inflammation of the airways, limiting airflow and exacerbating respiratory distress.

Oral corticosteroids are effective in quickly addressing this inflammation, leading to improved lung function and symptom relief. They are generally prescribed for a limited duration, typically ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of the exacerbation.

In contrast, long-acting beta agonists are typically used for long-term control of asthma symptoms and are not designed for immediate relief during acute attacks, making them less effective in this context. Inhaled corticosteroids serve as a foundational treatment for chronic asthma management but may take time to exert their effects and are not ideal for immediate symptom control during an exacerbation. Leukotriene modifiers also help improve asthma control over time but are not considered first-line treatment for acute exacerbations.

Thus, short-term oral corticosteroids are specifically indicated and widely used to manage acute asthma exacerbations due to their rapid action and efficacy in reducing inflammation.