What are SABAs commonly used for?

SABAs, or Short-Acting Beta Agonists, are primarily used for quick relief from asthma symptoms. They work by rapidly relaxing the muscles around the airways, which allows for easier breathing during an asthma attack or wheezing episode. When patients experience acute episodes of asthma, a SABA can be inhaled to alleviate immediate symptoms, providing relief typically within minutes.

While SABAs can also be used in other contexts, such as preventing exercise-induced asthma, their defining characteristic is their quick onset of action, making them the go-to choice for immediate symptom relief. On the other hand, long-term asthma management typically involves the use of inhaled corticosteroids or long-acting medications, which focus more on controlling underlying inflammation rather than providing immediate relief.

Thus, recognizing that SABAs serve a critical role in providing rapid alleviation of asthma symptoms clarifies why they are sought after for quick relief rather than for long-term management or routine prevention of asthma attacks.