Symptom controllers5 15

If you've been prescribed a symptom controller it will act in a similar way to a reliever. Symptom controllers help to relax the tightened airway muscles that can cause asthma, but unlike a reliever, their effect is usually much longer. For immediate relief from asthma, or in an emergency situation, a reliever such as salbutamol or terbutaline is usually recommended.

Symptom controllers may be prescribed for people who are already on inhaled preventers but who may be:
  • Experiencing symptoms
  • Experiencing exercise induced asthma
  • Experiencing night-time asthma

If directed, always take your symptom controller, even when you're starting to feel better.

Although you may start to feel better after using a symptom controller, you should not stop or reduce any preventer medication you may be taking without consulting your doctor.
  Aim to live symptom free  
 
Asthma Foundation National Asthma Council Pharmacy Guild of Australia Pharmaceutical Society of Australia GlaxoSmithKline
This does not replace a full assessment from your doctor. Asthma Score Test™ copyright, QualityMetric Incorporated 2002, 2004. All Rights Reserved. Asthma Control Test is a trademark of QualityMetric Incorporated. Modified US version for use in Australia. Asthma Control Test is distributed by GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd. 1061 Mountain Hwy, Boronia, Victoria, 3155. ABN 47 100 162 481. Reference: 9. Nathan RA et al. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2004; 113:59-65. 2. Thomas M et al, The Asthma Control Test (ACT) as a predictor of GINA guideline-defined asthma control: analysis of a multinational cross-sectional survey; Prim Care Resp J 2009: 18(1): 41-49. SHM GLASE0097 PC10004047.