Answer:
Albuterol
Step-by-step explanation:
Albuterol is a bronchodilating medication that, when inhaled, is quite fast-acting, exacting its effects in 5 minutes or possibly quicker than that, hence why it is indicated for acute asthma attack. The medication works by binding to the beta-2 adrenergic receptors within the smooth muscle of the patient's airway causing them to relax this muscle allowing the airway to be more patent (open) that it previously was, thus allowing for more efficient ventilation.
Budesonide, or brand name Pulmicort, is an anti-inflammatory steroid medication that is used as a maintenance or a prevention treatment for asthma. Montelukast, or brand name Singulair, is also a bronchodilating medication, however it is also used for prevention and treatment of chronic asthma. Finally, Advair is a combination medication of both fluticasone and salmeterol, which are a steroid and a prevention long-acting beta agonist, meaning this medication is not indicated for acute symptoms.
Therefore, the most effective agent for treating an acute asthma attack is albuterol, the first option.