Asthma Management: Controller Medications
Asthma Management: Controller MedicationsThere are many different medications available to treat your asthma. But in general,asthma medications have two primary functions in your treatment.Controller medications work to help control or prevent symptoms. Quick-reliefmedications relieve symptoms during a flare-up. Understanding the difference willhelp you monitor how well your medications are working.Controller medications are also called long-term, maintenance or preventermedications. These medications are taken on a daily basis to control or preventsymptoms every day, even when you are feeling fine. Controller medications reducethe need for quick-relief medicationsQuick-relief medications are also called short-term, immediate or rescue medications.These medications are taken whenever you experience uncontrollable symptoms thatdisrupt your normal routine. Your healthcare provider will provide guidelines for usingyour quick-relief medications.“The quick-relief medicine I use for when I have that tightness, and I can’t get air inor out. That’s when I want to use my quick-acting.”However, if you find you need to use them more than two times per week, you shouldcall your healthcare provider. This is a sign that your controller medication is notworking properly for you. Your overall medication plan may need to be adjusted.It’s worth repeating. You need to use your controller medications every day, evenwhen you are feeling well. If you don’t take them regularly, they can’t do their job.Also, make sure that you stick to the prescribed dose.“It’s very important for people to take their meds properly. Do what your doctorprescribes. If he says do it twice a day, you should do it twice a day. Inhalers, ifyou use it more than you should – if he gives you a certain amount of timesyou20% gradient meshshould use it a week, if you use it more than that – get a hold of your doctor. Callyour nurse. Let them know what’s going on.”healthclipsIf you feel your symptoms aren’t being controlled by your medication, call yourhealthclipshealthcare provider. There may be a different dosage or medication more appropriatefor your care.healthclipshealthclips4% gradient meshThis program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, orsuitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.hc_pd_10010_98_en_t00002.pdf© Milner-Fenwick, Inc.healthclips5% gradient mesh
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