What is the main medication used to treat the chronic inflammation aspect of asthma?

The main medication used to treat the chronic inflammation aspect of asthma is steroids, specifically inhaled corticosteroids. These medications are highly effective in reducing inflammation in the airways, which is a central feature of asthma. Chronic inflammation leads to airway hyperresponsiveness and obstruction, and corticosteroids help to mitigate these effects by decreasing the release of inflammatory mediators, inhibiting the recruitment of inflammatory cells, and promoting repair mechanisms in the airway lining.

Inhaled corticosteroids are considered the first-line treatment for long-term management of asthma and are often prescribed for individuals with persistent asthma. They aid in controlling symptoms, reducing the frequency of asthma attacks, and improving overall lung function.

Other options, while they may have different roles in asthma management, do not primarily address the chronic inflammatory component. For instance, beta blockers are typically contraindicated in asthma patients as they can provoke bronchospasm. NSAIDs may cause exacerbation of asthma symptoms in allergy-prone individuals and are not used for asthma treatment. Mast cell stabilizers can provide some benefit but are generally considered less effective than corticosteroids for managing chronic inflammation.