Which medication is indicated as a bronchodilator for asthma management?

Albuterol is indicated as a bronchodilator for asthma management due to its mechanism of action as a selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist. This medication works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to bronchodilation, which allows for easier airflow and relief from symptoms of asthma such as wheezing and shortness of breath. It is commonly used as a rescue inhaler to provide quick relief during asthma attacks or exacerbations.

In contrast, Montelukast serves as a leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps manage asthma but does not provide immediate bronchodilation. Theophylline is a less frequently used bronchodilator that can also help with asthma symptoms but has more side effects and a narrower therapeutic window than albuterol. Beclomethasone is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, which is essential for long-term asthma management, but it does not directly cause bronchodilation like albuterol does. Therefore, albuterol is specifically indicated for its rapid bronchodilator effects in managing asthma.