Steroids, both inhaled and oral are regarded as effective means of controlling asthma. These help in reducing airway inflammation and mucus production.

It has been found out that inhaled steroids are the most effective medications which give quick relief from the asthma symptoms. Some of the benefits on consuming inhaled steroids are better asthma control, fewer symptoms and flare-ops and reduced need for hospitalization. However, it is important to know that these prevent asthma symptoms but do not relieve from the symptoms which a patient already suffers from. The dosage may vary from person to person depending upon the severity as well as the individual sensitivity.

These have to be administered daily to the patient for good results. Improvement in the symptoms is noticeable in one to three weeks of consuming these while the best results are noticed after three months of daily use. Some of the popular inhaled asteroids are Advair- a combination of steroid and a long-acting bronchodilator drug, Aerobid, Asmanex, Azmacort, Flovent, Pulmicort, Symbicort and Qvar.

Inhaled steroids are basically available in three forms: the metered dose inhaler (MDI), dry powder inhaler (DPI) and nebulizer solutions. However these must be administered to the patient after consulting the doctor.