Asthma and COPD

Question 1

Background information for Inhaled Beta Agonists

Answer 1

One of the main problems in asthma and COPD is narrowed airways. When beta-receptors in the lungs are activated the airways dilate.

Question 2

Pharmacology of Inhaled Beta Agonists

Answer 2

Activate beta-receptors in the lungs to dilate the airways, making it easier for patients to breathe

Question 3

Indications of Inhaled Beta Agonists

Answer 3

• Asthma
• COPD

Question 4

Side effects of Inhaled Beta Agonists

Answer 4

• Tachycardia (faster beating)
• Palpitations (feeling of irregular beating in the heart)

Question 5

Drug interactions of Inhaled Beta Agonists

Answer 5

• Certain beta blockers can oppose the effect of inhaled beta agonists

Question 6

Important note for Inhaled Beta Agonists

Answer 6

• Two classes of Inhaled Beta Agonists; short and long-acting
  -Short-acting for asthma attack
• Long-acting for asthma symptoms and COPD

Question 7

Background information for Inhaled Anticholinergics

Answer 7

Activation of acetylcholine receptors in the lungs leads to airway constriction/narrowing

Question 8

Pharmacology of Inhaled Anticholinergics

Answer 8

Block activation of acetylcholine receptors, thereby reducing airway constriction

Question 9

Indications of Inhaled Anticholinergics

Answer 9

• COPD

Question 10

Side effects of Inhaled Anticholinergics

Answer 10

• Dry mouth
• Constipation

Question 11

Drug interactions of Inhaled Anticholinergics

Answer 11

• Patients experiencing constipation from opioid use in addition to inhaled anticholinergics can worsen constipation

Question 12

Important note for Inhaled Anticholinergics

Answer 12

• Anticholinergics are not effective against asthma attacks

Question 13

Background information for Inhaled Corticosteroids

Answer 13

Inflammation plays a major role in asthma and COPD

Question 14

Pharmacology of Inhaled Corticosteroids

Answer 14

Block the body’s natural mechanism for the production of inflammatory mediators thus reducing inflammation

Question 15

Indications of Inhaled Corticosteroids

Answer 15

• Asthma
• COPD

Question 16

Side effects of Inhaled Corticosteroids

Answer 16

• Oral thrush
• Upper respiratory infection
• Sinusitis

Question 17

Drug interactions of Inhaled Corticosteroids

Answer 17

• Certain drugs can increase or decrease the activity of corticosteroids

Question 18

Important note for Inhaled Corticosteroids

Answer 18

• Many practitioners include “rinse mouth after use” to prevent oral thrush
• Must be used consistently