The healthcare provider prepares to administer a corticosteroid to a patient with a diagnosis of asthma. What is the rationale for administering this drug to this patient?

Corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory drugs work by reducing inflammation, swelling, and mucus production in the airways of a person with asthma. As a result, the airways are less inflamed and less likely to react to asthma triggers. Inhaled corticosteroids are the primary treatment for asthma.