Respiratory (Beta-Adrenergic Bronchodilators - Salmeterol)

Question 1

Examples of drug (Beta-Adrenergic Bronchodilators - Salmeterol)

Answer 1

• Salmeterol

Question 2

Mechanism of action (Beta-Adrenergic Bronchodilators - Salmeterol)

Answer 2

• Long-acting Beta-2 adrenoceptor agonist (LABA)
• Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, inducing bronchodilation.
• Inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokine release from mast cells and TNF-α release from monocytes, reducing airway inflammation.
• Increase mucus clearance from the airways by stimulating cilia action.

Question 3

Indications (Beta-Adrenergic Bronchodilators - Salmeterol)

Answer 3

• Asthma

- COPD

Question 4

Side effects (Beta-Adrenergic Bronchodilators - Salmeterol)

Answer 4

• Tremor
• Tachycardia / cardiac dysrhythmia
• Headache
• Sleep disturbances

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (Beta-Adrenergic Bronchodilators - Salmeterol)

Answer 5

• Not to be commenced in patients with rapidly deteriorating asthma – slower onset of action than SABA’s.

Question 6

Patient information (Beta-Adrenergic Bronchodilators - Salmeterol)

Answer 6

• Report any deterioration in symptoms following initiation of LABA.
• Do not exceed stated dose.
• Seek medical advice when stated dose fails to control symptoms.