Bronchodilator Bronchodilators are medications commonly used by people with asthma. They relax muscles that line the airways and allow the airways to open up. Some bronchodilators act quickly to stop asthma symptoms; others are longer acting and are used to control, or prevent, asthma symptoms. Back to Articles Related Articles Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.