An asthma action plan should be used to document the long-term use of asthma medication and how this should change depending on asthma severity. The plan should be reviewed on a regular basis.

Medications for allergic rhinitis

It is difficult to optimally control asthma symptoms if there is associated untreated allergic rhinitis. Treatment options include:

• Topical nasal corticosteroids – these are the most effective long term medication for allergic rhinitis.^{53 <LEI>} When used in patients with concurrent asthma and allergic rhinitis, they may improve the control of asthma and lessen the need for medication.
• Non-sedating antihistamines – these are also useful for treating symptoms of allergic rhinitis and are safe in people with asthma.

Medications that may aggravate asthma 

• Some prescribed and over the counter medications such as aspirin (ASA), NSAIDs and beta blockers.
• So-called natural treatments such as Echinacea and royal jelly can precipitate life-threatening anaphylaxis in predisposed individuals with asthma.

Content Updated March 2005