Respiratory System Pharmacology

Question 1

Antibiotic

Answer 1

Kills bacteria causing respiratory infections

Examples: ampicilllin; amoxicillin, Amoxil; ciprofloxacin, Cipro

Question 2

Antihistamine

Answer 2

Blocks the effects of histamine that has been released by the body during an allergy attack

Examples: fexofenadine, Allegra; loratadine, Claritin; diphenhydramine, Benadryl

Question 3

Antitussive

Answer 3

Relieves the urge to cough

Examples: hydrocodon, Hycodan; Dextromethorphan; Vicks Formula 44

Question 4

Bronchodilator

Answer 4

Relaxes muscle spasms in bronchial tubes. Used to treat asthma

Examples: albuterol, Proventil, Ventolin; theophyllin, Theo-Dur

Question 5

Corticosteroids

Answer 5

Reduces inflammation and swelling in the respiratory tract

Examples: fluticasone, Flonase; mometasone, Nasonex; triamcinolone, Azmacort

Question 6

Decongestant

Answer 6

Reduces stuffiness and congestion throughout the respiratory system

Examples: oxymetazoline, Afrin, Dristan, Sinex; pseudoephedrine, Drixoral, Sudafed

Question 7

Expectorant

Answer 7

Improves the ability to cough up mucus from the respiratory tract

Examples: guaifenesin, Robitussin, Mucinex

Question 8

Mucolytic

Answer 8

Liquefies mucus so it is easier to cough and clear it from the respiratory tract

Examples: N-acetyl-cysteine, Mucomyst