Which medications are used to relax or open airway muscles?

Bronchodilators are specifically designed to relax and open the airway muscles, making it easier for individuals to breathe. These medications work by targeting the smooth muscle lining in the airways, which can become constricted in various respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By dilating the bronchial passages, bronchodilators effectively reduce resistance in the airways and increase airflow to the lungs.

Corticosteroids, while they are anti-inflammatory agents that help decrease swelling and mucus production in the airways, do not directly relax the muscles around the airways. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and do not have a function related to muscle relaxation in the airways. Diuretics are utilized primarily to manage fluid retention and do not play a role in airway muscle function or relaxation. Therefore, bronchodilators are the correct choice for medications that specifically relax or open airway muscles.