Which drug is known to treat asthma as a bronchodilator?

Albuterol is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators, specifically short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonists. It works by relaxing the muscles of the airways, leading to dilation of the bronchial passages, which makes it easier to breathe. This rapid action makes albuterol particularly useful for the acute treatment of asthma symptoms during an asthma attack.

When a person experiences asthma, the airways can become constricted and inflamed, leading to difficulty in breathing. Albuterol targets specific receptors in the lungs, promoting bronchodilation and alleviating symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath. It is often administered via an inhaler, which allows for quick relief and is a staple in asthma management.

Other drugs in the answer choices do not serve this purpose. Levenordephrin, which may be used in different contexts, is not a primary treatment for asthma. Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic but is not used as a bronchodilator; in some cases, it can even exacerbate asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that generally causes bronchoconstriction rather than dilation. Therefore, albuterol is the appropriate choice for treating asthma as