Asthma attack interferes with a person’s ability to breathe. It does this by causing inflammation in the airways of the lungs, which makes them narrower. Over-the-counter (OTC) inhalers and medications may help people with very mild asthma manage their symptoms.
People should only consider using these treatments if they have received a diagnosis of asthma and checked with their doctor that OTC products are sufficient for them.
People with asthma may:
- feel short of breath
- have tightness in the chest
- experience frequent coughing fits
- start wheezing, making whistling sounds when they exhale
Primatene Mist HFA
Asthmanefrin
Bronchial asthma relief
Primatene Mist HFA
Primatene Mist HFA, which is suitable for people 12 years old and overTrusted Source, is the only nonprescription inhaler that the Food and Drug Administration have approved. People inhale this liquid form of epinephrine through the mouth. It relaxes the airways and helps them open up, making it easier to breathe.
Not all medical experts support the FDA’s decision. The American College of Chest Physicians are on record as opposing the choice because they maintain that all people with asthma need to be under a doctor’s care.
Asthmanefrin
The active ingredient in this OTC asthma inhaler is racepinephrine. The inhaler is available without a prescription to relieve mild symptoms of occasional asthma, such as shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, and wheezing.
Pregnant women, people who take antidepressants known as MAO inhibitors, and those with heart disease, diabetes, thyroid issues, and many other conditions should not use this medication.
Bronchial asthma relief
An OTC tablet comprising a blend of ephedrine and guaifenesin, this medication thins mucus, which makes it easier for people to cough it out of their lungs.