Which of the following is a typical use scenario for a short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA)?

• A. Long-term management of asthma
• B. Acute relief of bronchospasm
• C. Treat bacterial infection
• D. Prevent osteoporosis

Answer: (B)

Short-acting beta2-agonists provide rapid bronchodilation by quickly stimulating beta-2 receptors in airway smooth muscle, which relieves bronchoconstriction within minutes. Because of this fast onset, they’re used as rescue or relief therapy for acute bronchospasm during asthma or COPD flare-ups, helping restore airflow promptly. Their effects are short-lived, typically lasting only a few hours, so they’re not intended for long-term control or prevention. They aren’t used to treat infections or systemic conditions like osteoporosis, and using them regularly for maintenance without other controller medications can mask worsening disease. In practice, a SABA inhaler is the go-to for sudden symptoms or before exercise for people who have been prescribed it for relief. Classic example: albuterol inhaler.