Which treatment is indicated for a patient experiencing an acute asthma attack?

The treatment indicated for a patient experiencing an acute asthma attack is a short-acting bronchodilator. These medications are designed to provide rapid relief from bronchospasm and are essential in managing acute respiratory distress. They work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, thereby allowing for easier airflow and reducing symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Short-acting bronchodilators, often referred to as rescue inhalers, typically contain formulations like albuterol or levalbuterol, which act quickly, usually within minutes, to alleviate acute symptoms. This makes them effective in emergency situations when immediate intervention is necessary to prevent further deterioration of the patient's respiratory status.

In contrast, long-acting bronchodilators are not suitable for acute management since they take longer to onset and are meant for regular maintenance therapy. Antihistamines, while helpful in managing allergic reactions or symptoms, do not directly address the bronchospasm associated with asthma attacks. Inhaled steroids are more effective for long-term control and prevention of asthma symptoms rather than for immediate relief during an acute episode.