Which therapeutic agent is primarily utilized to manage acute bronchospasms?

Short-acting beta agonists are the primary therapeutic agents used to manage acute bronchospasms. These medications act quickly to relax the smooth muscles of the airways, providing rapid relief from sudden episodes of wheezing and shortness of breath. They are often the first choice for immediate treatment during an asthma attack or acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

In contrast, glucocorticoids are more effective for long-term control of inflammation in chronic respiratory conditions but do not act quickly enough for acute relief. Long-acting beta agonists are used for maintenance therapy and provide prolonged bronchodilation but are not intended for immediate action in acute situations. Mucolytics serve a different purpose by helping to thin mucus, making it easier to expel, but they do not address bronchospasm directly. Therefore, the rapid-acting mechanism of short-acting beta agonists makes them essential for the acute management of bronchospasms.