Which medication is primarily used for acute asthma symptoms?

Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) that is primarily used for the quick relief of acute asthma symptoms. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, which leads to bronchodilation and helps to alleviate wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness that often occur during an asthma attack. Its fast onset of action, typically within minutes, makes it the go-to medication for immediate symptom relief.

In contrast, other options such as LABAs (long-acting beta-agonists) are used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and not for immediate relief, as they have a slower onset and are intended to control symptoms over a longer period rather than address acute episodes. Bitolterol, while also a bronchodilator, is less commonly used today compared to albuterol. Racemic epinephrine is primarily used in specific situations, such as with croup or severe bronchospasm, rather than routine acute asthma management. Therefore, albuterol's role as a rescue inhaler makes it the most suitable option for quick relief of acute asthma symptoms.