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Medical Treatment for Non-Allergic Asthma

Intrinsic asthma, also known as non-allergic asthma, is a respiratory disease that causes you airways to constrict and restrict breathing due to stress, cold air, exercise as well as chemical or smoke inhalation. Non-allergic asthma can also cause inflammation, chest pain, rapid breathing or wheezing, according to "The Asthma Sourcebook." If left untreated non-allergic asthma can permanently damage your airways, which will limit your physical mobility. Treatment for non-allergic asthma includes bronchodilators, corticosteroids and leukotriene modifiers.

  1. Bronchodilators

    • Bronchodilators are a type of medication that provides rapid relief from asthma, and comes in three different types: anticholinergics, beta-antagonists and theophyllines, according to "The Asthma Sourcebook." Although bronchodilators can be taken as a pill or a liquid, inhalant bronchodilators are the most effective as they quickly reach your airways and reduce constriction and inflammation. Bronchodilators can also be taken shortly before working out in order to prevent an asthma attack, with asthma relief lasting between 3 to 4 hours. Side effects of bronchodilators include dry, scratchy throat, dizziness, heartburn or anxiety.

    Corticosteroids

    • Fluticasone, mometasone and triamcinolone are just a few common corticosteroids prescribed to manage non-allergic asthma. These medications are intended for long-term asthma treatment, and should not be taken while experiencing an asthma attack as it takes a few days to a few weeks before it begins to work. Inhaled corticosteroids are preferred over oral corticosteroids as they are less likely to cause side effects, according to the Mayo Clinic. Possible side effects of corticosteroids include dry mouth, hoarseness and sore throat, and can occur if the medication settles on your throat and in your mouth rather than your lungs.

    Leukotriene Modifiers

    • Leukotrienes are fatty acids that increase mucus secretion in your lungs, which can induce asthma. Leukotriene modifiers prevent leukotrienes from attaching to cellular receptors, which lowers the risk of an asthma attack from occurring, according to the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Montelukast, zafirlukast and zileuton are three commonly prescribed leukotriene modifiers. These drugs prevent asthma flare-ups for up to 24 hours when taken daily, and require blood tests on a regular basis to prevent possible liver damage, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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