Which type of medication is often prescribed for long-term control of asthma?

Long-acting beta-agonists are specifically designed for long-term control of asthma symptoms. They work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, leading to improved airflow and reduced bronchoconstriction over an extended period. This makes them particularly useful for patients who experience frequent asthma symptoms or have nighttime awakenings due to asthma.

In contrast, short-acting beta-agonists are used primarily for quick relief of acute asthma symptoms and are not intended for chronic management since their duration of action is much shorter. Quick-relief inhalers focus on providing instant relief during asthma attacks rather than managing the underlying condition long-term. Immediate-release corticosteroids may have some role in asthma treatment, but they are not typically used for long-term management; rather, inhaled corticosteroids are preferred for consistent control of asthma over time. Thus, the long-acting beta-agonists are the most appropriate choice for ongoing asthma management.