For a child with asthma, what medication is commonly prescribed as a rescue inhaler?

For a child with asthma, the medication that is commonly prescribed as a rescue inhaler is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). SABAs, such as albuterol, are used for quick relief of asthma symptoms and provide immediate bronchodilation. They work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, allowing for easier breathing during an acute asthma attack or when symptoms exacerbate.

In contrast, long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) are typically used for maintenance therapy to control persistent asthma symptoms but are not intended for immediate relief. Inhaled corticosteroids are preventive medications that reduce inflammation in the airways over time and are not used for immediate symptom relief. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are also primarily used for long-term control and management of asthma and are not suitable as rescue medications during acute episodes.

Thus, the role of a short-acting beta agonist as a rescue inhaler is crucial in asthma management, providing prompt relief during acute episodes and allowing children to regain normal breathing quickly.