Which medications are systemic corticosteroids used for in asthma?

Which medications are systemic corticosteroids used for in asthma?

• A. Albuterol, Salmeterol, Formoterol
• B. Prednisone, Prednisolone, Methylprednisolone.
• C. Cetirizine, Loratadine, Diphenhydramine
• D. Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Naproxen

Answer: (B)

Systemic corticosteroids are used in asthma to quickly reduce airway inflammation during severe or acute exacerbations. Prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone are examples given orally or intravenously, and they help decrease inflammation, lessen mucus production, and improve airflow. Because they affect the whole body, they’re typically used for short courses to control flares or when inhaled therapies aren’t enough, rather than as routine daily control. Other options don’t fit because they’re not systemic anti-inflammatory steroids: bronchodilators like albuterol, salmeterol, and formoterol open the airways but don’t address inflammation; antihistamines target allergic symptoms rather than the inflammatory process in asthma; and NSAIDs are pain relievers that don’t treat asthma inflammation and can even worsen symptoms in some individuals.

Systemic corticosteroids are used in asthma to quickly reduce airway inflammation during severe or acute exacerbations. Prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone are examples given orally or intravenously, and they help decrease inflammation, lessen mucus production, and improve airflow. Because they affect the whole body, they’re typically used for short courses to control flares or when inhaled therapies aren’t enough, rather than as routine daily control.

Other options don’t fit because they’re not systemic anti-inflammatory steroids: bronchodilators like albuterol, salmeterol, and formoterol open the airways but don’t address inflammation; antihistamines target allergic symptoms rather than the inflammatory process in asthma; and NSAIDs are pain relievers that don’t treat asthma inflammation and can even worsen symptoms in some individuals.