Pharmacological Management

Question 1

Ventolin (Albuterol); Alupent (metaproterenol). Maxair (Pirbuterol)

Answer 1

Short acting beta 2 agonists

Produce bronchodilation; can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Given through metered dose inhaler (MDI)

Question 2

Serevent (Salmeterol xinafoate)

Answer 2

Long acting beta 2 agonists (sympathomimetics)

Bronchodilation; may decrease need for rescue drugs and inhaled anti-inflammatories

Question 3

Atrovent (ipratropium)

Answer 3

Anticholinergics

Inhibits the PNS, increases heart rate, blood pressure, and bronchodilation.

Question 4

Aminophylline and theophylline

Answer 4

Methylxanthines

Produces smooth muscle relaxation

Question 5

Acetylcysteine (Mucosil)
Dornase alpho (Pulmozyme)

Answer 5

Mucolytic Agents

Thin mucous secretions by altering the composition and consistency of mucous

Question 6

Guafinesin (Anti-Tuss)
Iodinated glycerol (Iohen)

Answer 6

Expectorant Agents

Increase removal of mucous through transport from the lungs

Question 7

Montelukast (Singulair)

Answer 7

Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Blocks leukotrienes released in allergic reactions. Inhibits airway edema. Additive benefits when used in conjunction with other anti-inflammatories

Question 8

Intal

Answer 8

Cromolyn sodium

Prevents release of mast cells (histamine) after contact with allergens. Used prophylactically to prevent exercise induced bronchospasm and severe bronchial asthma via oral inhalation

Question 9

Vanceril (beclomethasone, MDI), Azmacort (triamcinolone, MDI)

Answer 9

Anti-inflammatory agents

Control inflammation of the airways; decrease bronchospasm, stabilize inflammatory response in the respiratory tract, and mucosal edema