What is the choice of medication for an acute asthma attack?

The choice of medication for an acute asthma attack is the short-acting beta agonist (SABA). SABAs work by quickly relaxing the muscles around the airways, leading to dilation, which helps relieve symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath. They are designed for rapid action, typically within minutes, making them the first line of treatment during an acute asthma exacerbation.

In contrast, long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) are used for the long-term control of asthma but are not suitable for immediate relief due to their slower onset of action. Inhalable corticosteroids are effective for long-term management to reduce inflammation but do not provide quick relief during an acute episode. Oral corticosteroids can be used for severe asthma exacerbations but are not typically the first choice due to their slower onset and potential side effects when used for immediate relief. Thus, SABAs are the preferred and most effective option for treating acute asthma attacks.