What type of medication is known as a quick-relief medication for asthma?

Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) are indeed recognized as quick-relief medications for asthma. They work by rapidly relaxing the muscles around the airways, leading to an immediate decrease in bronchoconstriction and allowing for easier breathing. The action of SABAs typically begins within minutes and provides short-term relief from acute asthma symptoms, making them a vital component of asthma management, especially during exacerbation or when symptoms arise unexpectedly.

In contrast, long-acting beta-agonists are designed for maintenance therapy and have a prolonged effect, typically lasting hours and are not appropriate for immediate relief. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and do not have a role in asthma management unless there is a concurrent infection. Inhaled corticosteroids, while effective for long-term control of asthma by reducing inflammation, do not provide immediate relief from acute symptoms and are intended for ongoing management rather than for acute episodes. Therefore, the correct identification of SABAs as quick-relief medications aligns with their pharmacological action and role in asthma treatment.