Resp Meds Flashcards
What is the mechanism of action of a short acting beta 2 receptor agonist?
Bronchial smooth muscle relaxation causing bronchodilation through activating beta2-adrenergic receptors
What is the indication of short acting beta 2 receptor agonists?
Prevention or relief of bronchospasm in asthma or COPD. Used PRN, inhaled.
What are the side effects of short acting beta 2 receptor agonists?
In larger doses, may cause anxiety, nausea, tremors, palpitations, increased heart rate -> tachydysrthythmias, angina, seizures.
What are the contraindications/interactions of short acting beta 2 receptor agonists?
Effects may be diminished if pt is taking beta blockers. Avoid use in pts taking MAOIs/other sympathomimetics r/t risk of hypertension.
What is an example of a short acting beta 2 receptor agonist?
Salbutamol (Albuterol)
What is the mechanism of action of a long acting beta 2 receptor agonist?
Bronchial smooth muscle relaxation causing bronchodilation.
What is the indication of long acting beta 2 receptor agonist?
Prevention/long term control of bronchospasm in asthma or COPD. Fixed schedule, not PRN, inhaled.
What are the side effects of long acting beta 2 receptor agonist?
May increase risk of death if used monotherapy in asthma.
What are the contraindications/interactions of long acting beta 2 receptor agonist?
Effects may be diminished if pt is taking beta blockers. Avoid use in pts taking MAOIs/other sympathomimetics r/t risk of hypertension.
What is an example of a long acting beta 2 receptor agonist?
Salmeterol
In asthma, what must be given alongside a long acting beta 2 agonist?
A glucocorticoid.
What is the mechanism of action of an anticholinergic?
Blocks muscarinic receptors in the bronchi -> reduced bronchospasm
What is the indication of an anticholinergic?
Slower onset compared to beta agonist. Used for prevention of bronchospasm. COPD “off label” for asthma. Inhaled.
What are the side effects of an anticholinergic?
Dry mouth, throat, nasal congestion. Not readily absorbed systemically, but if it does this can increase intraocular pressure.
What are the contraindications/interactions of an anticholinergic?
Caution in pts with acute angle glaucoma or prostate enlargement. Possible addictive toxicity in use with other anticholinergic drugs.
What is an example of an anticholinergic?
Ipratropium, tiotropium
What is the mechanism of action of methylxanthines?
Bronchodilation by relaxing the smooth muscle of the bronchi. Not firmly established - likely from blocking adenosine receptors.