[Anti-asthma drugs].

With respect to their main mechanism of action, anti-asthma drugs are classified as bronchodilators or anti-inflammatory drugs. Inhaled beta 2-agonists are the most effective bronchodilators. The shorts acting beta 2-agonists are used for the relief of acute symptoms whereas long acting beta 2-agonists are used on a regular basis, concomitantly with inhaled corticoids, for long-term control of symptoms. The others bronchodilators (methylxanthines or anticholinergics) may be used in addition to the inhaled beta 2-agonists. The treatment of bronchial inflammation is required in mild to severe persistent asthma. Inhaled corticoids are the main anti-inflammatory drugs. They have a low risk of adverse events at usual dosages. Anti-leukotrienes belong to a new class of anti-inflammatory drugs represented by montelukast in France. This drug is orally administered, well tolerated and used in addition to inhaled corticoids. Cromones and ketotifen are used only in mild persistent asthma. Inhaled beta 2-agonists, anti-leukotrienes and cormones are also used for prevention of exercise-induced asthma.