Sylvania Rx
Understanding Asthma Medications: Rescue vs Maintenance Inhalers

Understanding Asthma Medications: Rescue vs Maintenance Inhalers

If you or a loved one lives with asthma, understanding how your medications work is essential. At Sylvania Rx Pharmacy, we’re here to help you feel more confident managing asthma by explaining the difference between rescue inhalers and maintenance inhalers—two key types of asthhma medications used in day-to-day care.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in your lungs. It causes inflammation and narrowing, which can lead to symptoms like:

  • Coughing

  • Wheezing

  • Shortness of breath

  • Chest tightness

Although asthma has no cure, it can be effectively managed with the right medications and care.

Types of Asthma Medications

Asthma treatment usually involves two main types of medications: rescue inhalers for quick relief and maintenance inhalers for long-term control. Understanding the difference helps you use them correctly and avoid unnecessary symptoms or flare-ups.

What Is a Rescue Inhaler?

Rescue inhalers, also called quick-relief inhalers, are used when you experience sudden asthma symptoms. They work by relaxing the muscles around your airways, allowing you to breathe more easily within minutes.

Common Rescue Medications:

  • Albuterol (Ventolin, ProAir, Proventil)

  • Levalbuterol (Xopenex)

Important: Rescue inhalers are not meant for daily use. If you're using one more than twice a week, talk to your doctor. You may need a better long-term control plan.

What Is a Maintenance Inhaler?

Maintenance inhalers, or controller inhalers, help reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms from occurring. These are taken every day, even when you feel well.

Common Maintenance Medications:

  • Inhaled corticosteroids (Fluticasone, Budesonide)

  • Combination inhalers (e.g., Advair, Symbicort, Breo)

  • Leukotriene modifiers (e.g., Montelukast)

These medications don’t provide quick relief, but they play a critical role in keeping asthma under control over time.

Why You May Need Both

Many people with asthma are prescribed both types of inhalers. The rescue inhaler treats symptoms when they happen, while the maintenance inhaler helps prevent those symptoms from occurring in the first place.

Using both correctly can:

  • Reduce the number of asthma attacks

  • Improve your breathing

  • Help you stay active and confident in your daily life

How Sylvania Rx Pharmacy Can Help

Managing asthma can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Sylvania Rx Pharmacy, we offer:

One-on-One Counseling

We’ll explain how and when to use your inhalers, and answer any questions you have.

Medication Synchronization

Pick up all your prescriptions on the same day each month for added convenience.

Automatic Refills and Reminders

We’ll help you stay on track so you never run out of your asthma medications.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between rescue and maintenance inhalers is key to managing asthma effectively. If you have any questions about your asthma medications or need help organizing your treatment plan, stop by or call Sylvania Rx Pharmacy.

Your health and peace of mind are our priority.

Blogs