Hi Raman,

Thanks for asking these questions. Unfortunately, we cannot advise you specifically about what meds to take over the Internet. The best person to advise on these things is your own doctor who knows you, your current medical condition and your medical history. However, I can tell you that Theophylline is sometimes used on a long term basis. Like all meds, it can have side effects, and it may not be as effective alone as an inhaled steroid, but in combination, it can have a place in asthma treatment for some people.

As far as adding an antibiotic, first off, I would never advise you to make that decision on your own. Diagnosing an infection should be done by a licensed physician only and then decisions on what drug to use to treat it should be made jointly between patient and physician.

Work in partnership with your doctor, and I'm sure you'll take control of your asthma. If necessary, you might consider seeing an asthma specialist, such as an allergist or pulmonologist, to consult on the best treatment plan for you.

To your health,

Kathi