Respiratory Drugs (Upper) Flashcards
Upper resp. tract includes
nasal cavity, pharynx, and larynx
URIs are most commonly viral (Rhinovirus or Influenza), but can also be
bacterial or allergic
URI sx
rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, cough, increased nasal secretions
Treatment for URI is empiric and focused on
symptomatic relief
Acute inflammation of nasal mucus membranes
Usually accompanies the common cold
“When your nose is kind of runny, some people think its funny, but its Snot”
acute rhinitis
Inflammation of the nasal mucus layer w/ exudate in the airway
AKA Hayfever, can be seasonal
Response to foreign substance such as pollen or animal dander
Will also see rhinorrhea, itchy/watery eyes, red swollen-boggy nasal mucosa, post-nasal drainage
allergic rhinitis
Properties of antihistamines
antihistaminic, anticholinergic, and sedative
1st gen antihistamines cause
drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, decreased secretions, urine retention, blurred vision, and wheezing
Antihistamine that competes and occupies H1 receptor sites to block the effects of histamine. Results in decreased nasal secretions, nasal itching/tickling that causes sneezing
Name the drug.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Drugs that work peripherally to block actions of histamine. Fewer anticholinergic effects and lower incidence of drowsiness than 1st gen.
Name the class and examples of the drugs.
2nd gen antihistamines
Ex: Azelastine, Cetirizine, & Loratadine
H1 blockers/H1 antagonists are also known as
Work by blocking H1 receptor sites
antihistamines
Stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors on vascular smooth muscle.
Vascular constriction occurs, shrinking of the nasal mucosa = reduction in nasal secretions.
Act promptly. Fewer side effects than systemic decongestants.
Name the class and drugs.
Nasal decongestants
Ex: Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
Repeated or freq. use of nasal spray/drops can result in
tolerance/rebound nasal congestion.
May need to take permanently.
Relieve nasal congestion for a longer period of time. Found in many cough/cold preparations.
Can increase blood pressure & glucose levels.
Use extreme caution in patients w/ hypertension, cardiac disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes.
Systemic decongestants
Ex: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and Phenylephrine hydrochloride
Reduce rhinorrhea, sneezing, and congestion, through anti-inflammatory actions. Can be used alone or in combo w/ an H1 antihistamine.
Dosing is typically 1-2 sprays twice daily for most preparations. short term use (seasonally).
Name the class and drugs.
Intranasal glucocorticoids
Ex: Budesonide and Fluticasone
Acts to break down thick mucus
mucolytic
Used for nonproductive coughs, suppresses cough
Act on the cough control center in the medulla
Cross the placenta and breastmilk
Name class and drugs.
Antitussive
Ex: Benzonatate (Tessalon), Codeine, Dextromethorphan (Benylin), and Hydrocodone (hHcodan)
Loosens bronchial secretions by reducing the viscosity of mucoid secretions.
Found in many OTC cold remedies.
Caution in use with elderly patients, asthmatic patients, and patients w/ respiratory insufficiency
Expectorants
Ex: Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
- Treatment is aimed at symptomatic treatment
- Systemic/Nasal Decongestants
- Pain relivers (Acetaminophen/NSAID)
- Rest & Hydration
- Antibiotics if symptoms persist beyond 7-10 days
Sinusitis
- Treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation and pain
- Saline gargles
- Lozenges
- Increased oral fluid intake
- Pain relievers (Acetaminophen/NSAID)
Acute pharyngitis
