A wide range of topics can be covered when considering a review of respiratory therapeutics. This review focuses on advances and controversies in the therapy of asthma, including issues regarding medications such as inhaled β2-agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, cromolyn sodium, and theophylline. Bronchodilator therapy for acute viral bronchiolitis remains a controversial issue and is discussed in light of recent published manuscripts. Issues regarding surfactant therapy for respiratory distress syndrome remain prominent in the neonatal respiratory therapeutics literature and recent findings in this area are reported. Advances in the treatment of cystic fibrosis, as well as a review concerning the pulmonary toxicity of various medications used in the treatment of pediatric illness are discussed.