B13 W2 Drugs

Question 1

Salbutamol

Answer 1

Short acting beta agonist used in asthma and COPD. It causes increase in intracellular cAMP to induce bronchodilation. It cannot be given for people with pre-eclampsia or history of intrauterine infection. Salbutamol can cause heart palpitations and arrythmias.

Question 2

Salmeterol

Answer 2

Long acting beta agonist which occupies the beta receptor via leucine residues. It causes palpitations, tremors and arrythmias, and should be avoided in those with cardiovascular disease.

Question 3

Budesonide

Answer 3

Inhaled corticosteroid which reduces the gene expression of inflammatory mediators and neutrophil migration, given for asthma and allergic rhinitis.

It is typically prescribed with a beta agonist and side effects include increased risk of oral candiadis and causes voice alteration due to dryness of vocal cords.

Question 4

Montelukaust

Answer 4

Leukotriene receptor antagonist which prevents the action on the CystLT1 receptor for bronchoconstriction. This reduces mucus hypersecretion, given for asthma and allergic rhinitis. However, it can lead to URT infection because of reduced defences.

Question 5

Ipratropium

Answer 5

Short acting muscarinic antagonist which prevents bronchoconstriction and bronchial secretions. It is given for asthma, rhinitis and COPD and causes dry mouth and constipation.