Which Drugs Can Trigger Asthma?

People with asthma may be sensitive to medicines used to treat pain and reduce fever. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs). These can cause symptoms like coughing and wheezing. Some people may even develop hives and facial swelling.

If you have asthma, aspirin/NSAID sensitivity, and nasal polyps, you have something called Samter’s triad. Common symptoms are runny nose, postnasal drip, congestion, wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath. Talk to your doctor about options other than aspirin and NSAIDs if you have this.

If you have aspirin-sensitive asthma, acetaminophen may work for you, but it may still make your asthma worse. It's important to read drug labels and seek advice from your doctor. Prescription painkillers like narcotics are safe for chronic pain, except for during severe asthma attacks, where they can cause dangerously slow breathing.

Ice packs can improve pain and swelling for things like a sprained ankle or sore muscles. A heating pad or hot towel can help treat chronic overuse injuries (not recent injuries). You can also manage your pain through yoga, exercise, acupuncture, or massage.

Beta-blockers are common for treating heart conditions, migraine, and more. If your health care provider says you need these medications, you can take a few trial doses to see if they affect your asthma. ACE inhibitors treat heart conditions and high blood pressure but can cause coughing, which could mask asthma symptoms. Always tell your doctors about your asthma if they prescribe either of these drugs.