Inhaled corticosteroids

Inhaled corticosteroids calm inflammation in the airways and are the main long-term controller medicines for asthma. Taken every day, they prevent symptoms and attacks, but they do not open the airways fast enough to relieve a sudden attack. Hoarseness and oral thrush are the most common side effects, and rinsing the mouth after each use helps prevent them. High doses over long periods can slow growth in children and affect bone density and the eyes.

• FluticasoneKnown brand names include Flovent, Armonair, Arnuity, and Flonase.