Respiratory Medications_March 26

Question 1

What drugs are available for asthma?

Answer 1

• Bronchodilaters

- Anti-inflammatory

Question 2

What bronchodilators are available?

Answer 2

Beta-2 receptor agonists
(Salbutamol)
-Cause smooth muscle relaxation
-Also inhibit inflammatory mediators
-Short acting: Salbutamol, Terbutaline
-Long acting: Eformoterol, Salmeterol, Indacaterol

Corticosteroids

• Anti-inflammatory
• Reduce bronchial hyperactivity
• Increase number of beta-2 receptors
• Usually first line unless asthma very mild
• Available: beclomethasone, budesonide, fluticasone, ciclesonide

Question 3

T/F beta-2 receptor agonists have high liver first pass?

Answer 3

T

Question 4

What is the onset of acute acting b2 agonists? How long do they last?

Answer 4

5-15 minutes

Last 3-6 hours

Question 5

What is the onset of longer acting b2 agonists? How long do they last?

Answer 5

30-30 minutes
Last 12 hours
-Used mainly for prevention and to stop nocturnal attacks

Question 6

What are the adverse effects of B2 agonists?

Answer 6

• Muscle tremor, cramps
• Tachycardia, palpitations
• Headache
• Agitation

Question 7

What are some adverse effects of corticosteroids?

Answer 7

Local:

• Candida
• Rash
• Hoarse voice

Systemic (short term with high dose or oral):

• Psychological
• Poor sleep
• Agitation
• Increased BP
• Increased glucose

Question 8

What do cromolyns do? What should you be aware of?

Answer 8

• Preventer

- No dental implications

Question 9

What anticholinergic bronchodilators are available?

Answer 9

• Ipratropium
• Tiotropium
• Basically watch for anything that ends in -ium