Asthma controller vs rescue inhaler

Asthma medications come in two categories. Controller (maintenance) inhalers contain inhaled corticosteroids (Flovent, QVAR, Pulmicort) or combination ICS + long-acting bronchodilator (Advair, Breo, Symbicort) taken daily to reduce airway inflammation. Rescue inhalers contain short-acting bronchodilators (albuterol) used as needed for acute symptoms.

Black patients are more likely than white patients to rely on rescue inhalers alone without controller therapy, which is associated with worse asthma outcomes and higher ER use. If you use a rescue inhaler more than twice a week, ask your clinician about a controller.