Side effects of asthma medicines

Asthma medications are very safe and generally have few side effects. The common side effects of each type of asthma medication can be found below.

Woman blowing dandelion
blue reliever inhaler

Reliever Inhalers

Relievers are a very safe and effective medicine and tend to have very few side effects. Some relievers may slightly increase your heart rate or give you very mild muscle tremors but these effects are usually associated with very high doses and generally wear off within a few minutes or at most, a few hours.

Group of controller inhalers

Controller Inhalers

Controller medication may sometimes cause hoarseness, a sore throat or oral thrush. These side effects can be reduced by making sure you use your inhaler correctly, use a spacer device, rinse your mouth and wipe your face after taking medication.

It is important to note that the steroids found in controller medication are identical to those produced naturally in the body and should not be confused with anabolic steroids which are sometimes used illegally by athletes.

Pack of steroid tablets

Oral Steroid Tablets

Oral steroid tablets may sometimes cause disturbed sleep, hyperactivity and increased appetite. Oral steroids can also reduce your child’s resistance to chicken pox. Speak to your healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.