I am a respiratory therapist and a mom. You do have a couple different choices other than the pulmocort. There are a couple bronchodialators (which help keep the bronchioles of the lungs open) out there and they can be given alone or combined with other antiinflamitory meds. In my experience these are the best that have worked:
Albuterol, a bronchodialator, can be given up to every 2 hours, but generally given every 4 hours. It does have some side effects such as nervousness, increased heart rate or jitters. It can also make children a little hyper.
The one that I have seen the best results with little side effects is called Xopenex (the x sounds like a z). It comes in two doses 0.67mg and 1.25mg. This works like the Albuterol that I mentioned but it is longer lasting and does not have the side effects like Albuterol. Alot of pulmonary doctors will prescribe Xopenex for children because of the reduced side effects. Xopenex usually is given every 6 hours. But can be given as frequently as every 4 hours.
In my experience with children with asthma, the Xopenex works the best. I would ask your pulmunologist about the 0.67mg dose.
If your child has a problem with inflamation you can also add Ipratropium Bromide, also known as Atrovent. This can be added to either Albuterol or Xopenex. Atrovent helps to keep the the airways open longer. It is kind of a double wammy to help combat any asthma attacks, wheezing or stridor.
Hope this information helps. If you have any questions please let me know. I will try to help clarify anything I can before you go see his doctor.