Which medication class is typically first-line treatment for asthma?

Inhaled corticosteroids are recognized as the first-line treatment for asthma due to their efficacy in reducing airway inflammation, which is a central component of asthma pathology. These medications act directly on the airways to decrease swelling and mucus production, making them particularly effective in managing persistent asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

Inhaled corticosteroids are designed for long-term control of asthma and are used daily as a maintenance therapy. Their ability to improve lung function, reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks, and enhance overall asthma control underscores their significance in asthma management.

While other medication classes play important roles in asthma management, such as leukotriene receptor antagonists, long-acting beta agonists, and oral corticosteroids, they are either used in conjunction with inhaled corticosteroids or are typically reserved for specific situations or cases of more severe asthma. For instance, long-acting beta agonists are often used as add-on therapy after inhaled corticosteroids in patients whose asthma is not adequately controlled on low-dose to medium-dose inhaled corticosteroids alone.