From Kathleen MacNaughton, R.N.,
Your Guide to Asthma.
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD

Definition: A bronchodilator is a type of asthma medicine that relaxes the smooth muscles in the walls of the airways. This opens the airways up (dilates or widens them), easing asthma symptoms, and makes it easier for you to breathe. Bronchodilators are used in both quick relief and controller medicines. Bronchodilators also come both in inhaled and oral varieties.

Source: Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America