What is the primary purpose of Beclovent (beclomethasone) for a patient with asthma?

Beclovent (beclomethasone) is primarily used as a controller medication for patients with asthma. It is an inhaled corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps to prevent asthma attacks and improve overall lung function over time. Unlike short-term bronchodilators, which provide immediate relief of acute symptoms by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle, Beclovent addresses the underlying inflammation and is meant for regular use to maintain control of asthma symptoms.

Controller medications like Beclovent are critical in a long-term management plan, as they help minimize the frequency and severity of exacerbations. This is especially important for patients with persistent asthma, as controlling inflammation may prevent the worsening of their condition and reduce reliance on rescue medications.

While other options, such as short-term bronchodilators or systemic steroids, play roles in asthma management, they do not align with the primary purpose of Beclovent. Short-term bronchodilators are used for quick relief of acute symptoms, and systemic steroids are utilized for severe exacerbations or when high doses are required.