What is the primary role of SABAs in asthma therapy?

SABAs, or short-acting beta-agonists, are primarily used as rescue or reliever therapy in asthma management. Their main role is to provide quick relief from acute bronchospasm by rapidly relaxing the muscles of the airways, making it easier to breathe. This immediate effect is vital for patients experiencing asthma attacks or exacerbations, allowing them to alleviate symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

While SABAs can be effective in managing acute episodes, they are not intended for long-term control or maintenance therapy of asthma. Other medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, serve that purpose by reducing inflammation and preventing the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms over time. Therefore, in the context of asthma management, recognizing the immediate action of SABAs as a reliever therapy is fundamental to understanding their role in the overall treatment strategy.