Respiratory Medications

Question 1

asthma medications

Answer 1

• beta-adrenergic agonists
• glucocorticoids
• methylxanthines
• anticholinergics
• mast cell stabilizers
• leukotriene modifiers
• monoclonal antibodies

Question 2

beta-adrenergic agonist

Answer 2

• relax smooth muscle in airways to relieve acute bronchospasm’s
• often prescribed long acting and short acting
• adverse effects: difficulty breathing, vomiting, severe heart palpitations
• avoid caffeine
• give FIRST before other meds

Question 3

glucocorticoids

Answer 3

• hormones that suppress airway inflammation
• rinse mouth after taking to avoid fungal infection
• adverse effects: adrenal crisis, sugar disturbance in DM

Question 4

Methylxanthines

Answer 4

• bronchodilators chemically r/t caffeine
• given PO or IV
• avoid caffeine

Question 5

anticholinergics

Answer 5

• bronchodilators (more for COPD than asthma)
• blocks PNS
• slower onset than beta-adrenergic agonist but less side effects

Question 6

mast cell stabilizers

Answer 6

• inhibit degranulation of mast cells by trigger stimuli by blocking Ca+ channels
• used for long term prevention of asthma
• not absorbed orally, inhale 4-6 times a day

Question 7

leukotriene modifiers

Answer 7

• blocks bronchoconsitrctor/inflammatory action of leukotrienes
• used for prevention
• given PO q12hr
• contraindication with liver disease or alcoholism
• caution with use over 55, infection risk

Question 8

monoclonal antibodies

Answer 8

• mimic immune systems ability to fight antigens
• used for persistent asthma
• given parenterally

Question 9

COPD medications

Answer 9

• beta-adrenergic agonists
• anticholinergics
• glucocorticoids
• O2 therapy

Question 10

antihistamines

Answer 10

• H1 receptor antagonist (block H1 receptor)
• used to treat allergic reactions
• more effective when taken for prevention
• avoid alcohol and CNS depressants (drowsiness)