Asthma Medications

Question 1

Quick Relief for Acute Exacerbation

Answer 1

SABA

Anticholinergics

Systemic Corticosteroids

Question 2

SABA

Answer 2

1st line for acute exacerbations

Albuterol, Levalbuterol

Bronchodilator

SE: Tachycardia, arrhythmias, muscle tremor, CNS stimulation

Question 3

Anticholinergics

Answer 3

Ipratropium (Atrovent)

Central bronchodilator, inhibits nasal mucosal secretions

Takes 1 hour to kick in

SE: Thirst, blurred vision, dry mouth, urinary retention, acute glaucoma

Question 4

Systemic Corticosteroids

Answer 4

Prednisone, Methylprednisone

Anti-inflammatory

Takes 4-8 hours for both oral and IV

Question 5

Long Term Maintenance

Answer 5

Inhaled corticosteroids

LABA

Mast cell modifiers

Leukotriene modifiers (LTRA)

Theophylline

Question 6

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)

Answer 6

Beclomethasone, Flunisolide

DOC for long-term, persistent

SE: Thrush

Question 7

LABA

Answer 7

Salmeterol

Bronchodilator

Not a rescue drug, do not use alone

Question 8

Mast Cell Modifiers

Answer 8

Cromolyn, Nedocromil

Inhibits mast cell degranulation

Improves lung function, decreases reactivity

Effective prophylaxis may take several weeks

Question 9

Leukotriene Modifiers (LTRA)

Answer 9

Montelukast (Singulair), Zafirlukast

Blocks leukotriene-mediated neutrophil migration

Useful in asthmatics, allergic rhinitis, or ASA-induced asthma

Question 10

Theophylline

Answer 10

Methylxanthine - similar to caffeine

Bronchodilator

Long-term asthma prophylaxis

SE: nervousness, N/V, anorexia, HA, CV/respiratory stimulant

Many drug interactions