Respiratory Drugs Flashcards
List 2 types of beta adrenergic bronchodilators.
Give an example of each.
Short acting (SABA), e.g. Salbutamol
Long acting (LABA), e.g. Salmeterol
Describe the mechanism of action of beta adrenergic bronchodilators. (3)
- Short/long acting beta 2 agonist (SABA/LABA), causing bronchial smooth muscle relaxation
a. This causes bronchodilation - Inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine release from mast cells and TNF alpha release from monocytes
a. This reduces airway inflammation - Stimulates cilia action
a. This increases mucous clearance from the airways
List the indications for short or long acting beta agonists. (2)
Asthma
COPD
List the side effects of short/long acting beta agonists. (4)
Tremor
Tachycardia
Headache
Sleep disturbances
Describe important pharmacokinetics/dynamics of SHORT acting beta agonists. (1)
What would you tell the patient when prescribing SABAs? (4)
IMPORTANT PHARMA INFO:
Spacer may improve drug delivery
PATIENT INFO:
Check inhaler technique
Review need for spacer/nebuliser
Take SABA before exercise in exercise induced asthma
If required more than once daily, treatment needs to be reviewed
Describe important pharmacokinetics/dynamics of LONG acting beta agonists. (1)
What would you tell the patient when prescribing LABAs? (3)
IMPORTANT PHARMA INFO:
Slow onset of action
PATIENT INFO:
Report any deterioration in symptoms
Do not exceed stated dose
Seek medical advice when stated dose fails to control symptoms
List 2 examples of anti-muscarinic bronchodilators.
Tiotropium
Ipratropium bromide
Describe the mechanism of action of anti-muscarinic bronchodilators. (3)
- Muscarinic (M3) receptor antagonists, which cause bronchodilation
- Reduces mucous secretion
- May stimulate cilia action, thereby increasing mucous clearance
List the indications for anti-muscarinic bronchodilators. (3)
Asthma
COPD
Rhinitis
List the side effects of anti-muscarinic bronchodilators. (4)
Dry mouth
Cough
Constipation
Acute angle closure glaucoma
Describe the important pharmacokinetics/dynamics of anti-muscarinic bronchodilators. (2)
Inhaled, therefore poorly absorbed into circulation
Nebulised ipratropium bromide should always be given via mouthpiece to avoid acute angle closure glaucoma
What would you tell the patient when prescribing anti-muscarinic bronchodilators? (2)
Good inhaler technique improves efficacy
Cough is relatively common
Give an example of an inhaled corticosteroid.
Beclomethasone
Describe the mechanism of action of inhaled corticosteroids. (3)
- Anti-inflammatory effect on airways
- Decreased formation of pro-inflammatory cytokines
- Up-regulates beta 2 adrenoceptors in airways
List 2 examples of combination therapies where inhaled corticosteroids are combined with LABAs.
Seretide
Symbicort