What is true regarding short-acting and long-acting beta agonists?

Short-acting beta agonists (SABAs) are known for their rapid onset of action, typically taking just a few minutes to provide relief from bronchospasm, which is crucial in situations like asthma attacks. These medications are primarily used as rescue inhalers because they act quickly to dilate the bronchi, making it easier to breathe.

In contrast, long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) are designed to have a sustained duration of action, usually lasting 12 hours or more. However, their onset of action is slower compared to that of SABAs, often taking 30 minutes to 2 hours to reach peak effectiveness. This characteristic makes LABAs suitable for maintenance therapy rather than immediate relief.

Thus, the statement about the shorter onset time for short-acting beta agonists is accurate, as these medications are formulated specifically for quick responses to respiratory distress, making them an essential component of asthma management for acute symptoms.