The most commonly prescribed medications for those afflicted with C.O.P.D. are a group called Bronchodilators. Bronchodilators, like Alupent and Proventyl, relax the muscles around the bronchial tubes, allowing air to flow unrestricted from the mouth to the lungs. There are three types of prescription Bronchodilating drugs: Beta2-Agonists, which are available in both short- and long-acting forms, Anticholinergics, which are short-acting, and Theopylline, which is long-acting. Short-acting bronchodilators help relieve C.O.P.D sufferers at the onset of an attack, while the long-acting varieties help to prevent and control symptoms from developing. Since there are such a variety of Bronchodilators, each with varying effects, your doctor will take your specific symptoms into account when deciding which medication or combination of medications is best for you.