A patient with asthma should be prescribed a medication that serves as a rescue inhaler. Which of the following medications is typically used for this purpose?

The medication that is typically used as a rescue inhaler for patients with asthma is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). SABAs work by providing quick relief from acute asthma symptoms by rapidly relaxing the muscles around the airways, allowing for easier airflow and immediate alleviation of wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

In contrast, long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), while beneficial for long-term control of asthma, are not suitable for immediate relief due to their slower onset of action. Leukotriene receptor antagonists are also used for long-term management of asthma symptoms but do not act quickly enough to be effective in acute situations. Inhaled corticosteroids are essential for controlling chronic inflammation associated with asthma, but again, they do not have the rapid bronchodilatory effect required during an asthma attack.

Thus, for immediate relief during acute asthma episodes, short-acting beta agonists are the preferred choice.