What type of medication would likely be used to achieve long-term control of asthma?

Leukotriene modifiers are a class of medications that play a significant role in long-term control of asthma. These medications work by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators that contribute to airway constriction, mucus production, and swelling in asthma. By inhibiting leukotrienes, these modifiers help to reduce inflammation and improve overall lung function, making them effective for managing chronic asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

In contrast, short-acting beta2 agonists are typically used for quick relief of acute asthma symptoms rather than for long-term management. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and are not a standard treatment for asthma, which is primarily an inflammatory disease rather than infectious. Nasal decongestants are designed to relieve nasal congestion and do not address the underlying inflammatory processes associated with asthma. Thus, the use of leukotriene modifiers is the most appropriate choice for long-term asthma control.