short-acting beta-agonists

Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) are medications that quickly relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe during asthma attacks or bronchospasm. They work within minutes and provide relief for symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. SABAs are typically used as “rescue” inhalers for immediate symptom relief. Common examples include albuterol and levalbuterol. They are effective for short-term relief but do not treat the underlying inflammation causing asthma; for long-term control, other medications are necessary.