LIVING WITH ASTHMA....RELEIVERS AND PREVENTERS.

RELEIVERS
A reliever is a drug that provides relief from asthma symptoms and is the most commonly used asthma medication. During an attack, the airways constrict, so short acting relievers are taken to relax the smooth muscle.
Relievers do not reduce the underlying inflammation associated with asthma and therefore do not prevent asthma attacks. A good rule of thumb is to take a preventer medication if you are using your reliever more than 3 - 4 times a week.
PREVENTERS
Anti-inflammatory medications are often called preventers as they help to control the underlying inflammation in the airways associated with asthma.
They are sometimes classified as "long-term control medication". This is confusing as "long-acting control medication" also includes long-acting reliever medications which have a different way of working.
Preventers are taken daily whether asthma symptoms occur or not. A common mistake is for asthmatics to stop taking their preventer when they have fewer symptoms. Their asthma slowly worsens again, the need for relievers increases and this can result in a serious, uncontrolled asthma attack. Never stop your preventive medication without consulting your doctor.
It is current medical practice for anyone who uses a bronchodilator more than 3 - 4 times a week to take a preventer medication.
Is My Asthma Under Control?
Initially, doctors may only prescribe a short acting reliever medication. However if this medication is required more than 3 to 4 times a week, your asthma is not well controlled and you probably need a preventive medicine. If you are already taking preventive medication, and are still using your short-acting reliever more than four times a week, then a review is needed of your medication.
This is because studies over the past ten to fifteen years have shown that the overuse of relievers deplete their usefulness and have been linked to a deterioration in asthma control. This has led to a new approach to asthma management with the emphasis on daily use of preventive medication and minimal need for relievers.