National Asthma Educator Certification Board (NAECB) Practice Exam

What type of medication is typically more effective than a leukotriene blocker for asthma?

1. Inhaled corticosteroids

2. Herbal inhalers

3. Short-acting beta agonists

4. Long-acting beta agonists

The correct answer is: Inhaled corticosteroids

Inhaled corticosteroids are typically considered more effective than leukotriene blockers for the management of asthma. They work by directly reducing inflammation in the airways, which is a central issue in asthma pathology. By decreasing the inflammatory response, inhaled corticosteroids help to prevent asthma symptoms, improve lung function, and reduce the frequency of exacerbations. Leukotriene blockers, while useful in managing asthma, primarily target the leukotriene pathways, which contribute to airway constriction and inflammation. However, their overall effect on reducing inflammation in a comprehensive manner does not match that of inhaled corticosteroids. In comparison to herbal inhalers, which may lack substantial evidence for efficacy and safety in asthma management, inhaled corticosteroids have a well-established role backed by extensive clinical research. Short-acting beta agonists provide immediate relief for acute asthma symptoms by relaxing airway muscles but do not address underlying inflammation. Long-acting beta agonists are more effective for controlling symptoms over a prolonged period but should always be used in conjunction with inhaled corticosteroids, rather than as standalone treatments. Thus, inhaled corticosteroids remain the preferred choice for long-term control of asthma due to their superior efficacy in managing inflammation.