What are the most commonly used corticosteroids mentioned?

The selection of methylprednisolone and hydrocortisone as the most commonly used corticosteroids highlights their importance in the management of various respiratory conditions. Methylprednisolone is a potent corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation, making it valuable in treating conditions like asthma exacerbations and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps to decrease airway swelling and improve breathing.

Hydrocortisone, another corticosteroid, is often used in emergencies to manage severe allergic reactions or adrenal insufficiency. It operates similarly by imparting anti-inflammatory effects, allowing for better airway management during acute respiratory events.

These corticosteroids are frequently administered in both inpatient and outpatient settings to address severe inflammation in the respiratory tract, especially during exacerbations of chronic respiratory diseases. Their systemic effects help stabilize the patient's condition rapidly.

The other options include medications like bronchodilators (Albuterol and Levalbuterol) that primarily work by relaxing airway muscles, but they do not have the same anti-inflammatory properties as corticosteroids. Similarly, Ipratropium is an anticholinergic used primarily for its bronchodilator effects, and racemic epinephrine is a sympathomimetic that primarily constricts blood vessels to reduce swelling but is not categorized as a