During an acute asthma exacerbation, which medication provides rapid relief of symptoms?

• A. Cromolyn via MDI
• B. Montelukast orally
• C. Budesonide via DPI
• D. Albuterol via jet nebulizer

Answer: (D)

Rapid relief in an acute asthma flare comes from a fast-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the airway smooth muscle quickly. Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist that opens the airways within minutes, easing wheezing and shortness of breath. Delivering it by jet nebulizer or an inhaler with a spacer provides prompt bronchodilation, making it the go-to rescue medication for immediate symptom relief.

The other options work differently and are not for quick relief. Cromolyn stabilizes mast cells to prevent symptoms but doesn’t act quickly and is used more for prevention. Montelukast is taken orally for longer-term control by blocking leukotriene effects, not for rapid relief. Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation over time and isn’t intended to relieve an acute attack right away.