Common Pulmonary Medications

Question 1

Common Pulmonary Medications

Answer 1

1. Bronchodilators
   * Sympathomimetics
   * Xanthine derivatives
2. Corticosteroids
3. Mucolytic, Expectorant, Antitussive

Question 2

Open narrowed airways or dilate the bronchus

Answer 2

Bronchodilators

Question 3

Examples of Symphatomimetics

Answer 3

1. Beta-Adrenergic Agonist
2. Anti-Cholinergic

Question 4

Relaxes smooth muscles of all airways

Best administered as inhalants

S/E: tremor, tachycardia, palpitations

Answer 4

Beta-Adrenergic Agonist

Question 5

Bind to acetylcholine receptors and result in bronchodilation (of mostly large airways)

Inhaled route is preferred

Answer 5

Anti-Cholinergic

Question 6

Reduces sputum production

S/E: palpitations

Answer 6

Anti-Cholinergic

Question 7

Weak bronchodilator; delays respiratory muscle fatigue

Answer 7

Methylxanthines or Xanthine derivative

Question 8

Reduces trapped lung gas; improves respiratory muscle mechanics

Answer 8

Methylxanthines or Xanthine derivative

Question 9

Relax and open airways; improve the diaphragm’s ability to contract

Answer 9

Theophylline

Question 10

Increase the clearance of mucus;

S/E: nervousness, tremors, nausea

Answer 10

Theophylline

Question 11

Best taken in AM on an empty stomach because it can cause insomnia

Avoid caffeine containing foods, stop smoking

Answer 11

Aminophylline

Question 12

Reduce airway inflammation

Answer 12

Corticosteroids

Question 13

Loosen secretions in respiratory tract by altering the viscosity of sputum

Answer 13

Mucolytic

Question 14

Drugs that blocks or suppress the cough reflex

Used for respiratory disorders nonproductive, irritating cough

Answer 14

Antitussives

Question 15

Drugs that liquefy secretions or decrease viscosity of secretions

Often in combination with antihistamine and decongestants

Answer 15

Expectorants

Question 16

Relieve allergy symptom

Answer 16

Antihistamine