There are several different types of over-the-counter (OTC) medications available for the treatment of asthma. Many individuals take these for temporary relief of mild asthma symptoms. All of these medications are bronchodilators, which relax muscles in the airways to make breathing easier, as well as make it easier to cough up mucus. There are two different forms of OTC asthma medications:

• Inhaled (inhaler). Contains epinephrine (adrenaline), and is used to quickly treat symptoms such as wheezing.
  
  
• Oral (caplets, tablets). Contains the stimulant ephedrine, and usually take 30 to 60 minutes to reach full effect.

There are several different concerns with the use of OTC asthma medications. While all of these medications sold in the United States have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the FDA recommends that an individual use these treatments only with a physician’s approval. Some of the specific concerns with OTC asthma medications include:

• By having symptoms relieved on a daily basis, an individual may fail to seek long-term treatment for a serious asthma condition – damaging their lungs.
  
  
• A physician cannot evaluate how much is being taken when it is distributed OTC.
  
  
• This type of medication is not suitable for every condition and individual. It can cause complications and can interfere with a number of conditions (e.g., high blood pressure, thyroid disease, heart disease, diabetes, enlarged prostate).
  
  
• These medications can cause several different side effects (e.g., nervousness, sleeplessness, anxiety, nausea, reduced appetite, rapid heartbeat, tremors).

Individuals should always inform their physician before taking any type of OTC asthma medication.