What medication is administered during an asthma attack?

During an asthma attack, the primary goal is to relieve bronchospasm and restore airflow in the airways. A bronchodilator is a type of medication that works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. They act quickly to open the air passages and are essential in the management of acute asthma symptoms.

Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, are often used as rescue medications. They are typically administered via an inhaler or nebulizer during an asthma attack to provide rapid relief. In contrast, corticosteroids are more commonly used for long-term control and reduction of inflammation associated with asthma, rather than for immediate relief during an acute episode. Antibiotics are used for treating bacterial infections and are not appropriate for asthma attacks unless there is a concurrent respiratory infection. Antihistamines can help with allergy-related symptoms but do not alleviate the bronchoconstriction characteristic of an asthma attack.

Thus, the treatment of choice during an asthma attack is a bronchodilator, as it responds directly to the need for immediate bronchial dilation.