For a client with exercise-induced asthma, which medication should be used prior to physical activity?

For a client with exercise-induced asthma, the most appropriate medication to use prior to physical activity is a mast cell stabilizer like Cromolyn. Cromolyn works by preventing the release of inflammatory substances from mast cells, which are involved in the allergic response and airway inflammation. This helps to stabilize the airways and reduce the likelihood of bronchoconstriction during exercise.

Using Cromolyn before physical activity can help reduce the occurrence of exercise-induced bronchospasm, making it beneficial for clients who know they will engage in strenuous exercise that may trigger asthma symptoms. It is typically taken as an inhaler or nebulizer solution about 15 minutes before exercise for optimal effectiveness.

The other medications mentioned, such as Beclomethasone and Budesonide, are corticosteroids that are more effective for long-term control of asthma inflammation and not for acute situations like exercise-induced bronchospasm. Tiotropium is an anticholinergic used primarily for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and maintenance treatment of asthma rather than acute symptoms. Therefore, for the specific scenario of managing exercise-induced asthma, Cromolyn is the most suitable choice.