What is commonly used to treat acute asthma attacks?

Racemic epinephrine is commonly used to treat acute asthma attacks because it is a bronchodilator that acts quickly to open the airways. This medication works by stimulating adrenergic receptors, leading to relaxation of the bronchial smooth muscle and ultimately reducing airway resistance. It can provide rapid relief of symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness during an acute asthma episode.

While other treatments may play roles in managing asthma in different contexts—such as intravenous fluids for hydration and oral antihistamines for allergies—these are not specifically designed to address the immediate airway constriction that occurs during an acute attack. Inhaled corticosteroids are effective for long-term control of asthma and reducing inflammation, but they do not provide the prompt relief required during an acute episode.