In the treatment of asthma, which classification of drug is commonly used alongside beta2-agonists?

Inhaled corticosteroids are commonly used in conjunction with beta2-agonists in the management of asthma due to their effectiveness in reducing airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness. Beta2-agonists primarily provide quick relief from acute bronchospasm by relaxing airway smooth muscles, resulting in bronchodilation. However, they do not address the underlying inflammation that contributes to asthma symptoms.

Inhaled corticosteroids, on the other hand, target the inflammatory processes of asthma by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators and decreasing airway edema. This dual approach of using inhaled corticosteroids for long-term control alongside beta2-agonists for immediate relief creates a comprehensive treatment strategy that significantly improves asthma control and enhances overall lung function.

While other drug classes such as methylxanthines, IV cholinergic antagonists, and mast cell stabilizers may be used in asthma treatment, they are not the first-line combination therapy with beta2-agonists. Methylxanthines have a narrower role and potential side effects, IV cholinergic antagonists are typically reserved for specific situations, and mast cell stabilizers are generally less effective than inhaled corticosteroids in managing chronic asthma. Therefore, inhaled corticosteroids represent the most common and effective companion therapy to