Respiratory Therapeutics Flashcards
What constitutes complete control of asthma?
No daytime symptoms, no nighttime awakening, no rescue medication, no asthma exacerbations, no activity limitations, normal lung function, minimal side effects from treatment
What is essential for all asthma patients to manage their condition?
Good inhaler technique and elimination of triggers
What are examples of short-acting beta 2-agonists (SABA)?
- Salbutamol
- Terbutaline
What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of short-acting beta 2-agonists?
Beta 2 agonists cause relaxation in lungs resulting in bronchodilation
What are common side effects of short-acting beta 2-agonists?
- Tremor
- Tachycardia
- Low K+
What are examples of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)?
- Beclometasone dipropionate
- Fluticasone
- Budesonide
What is the MOA of inhaled corticosteroids?
Reduce inflammation (eosinophils), reduce inflammatory mediators, reduce mucus
What are common side effects of inhaled corticosteroids?
- Oral thrush/sore throat
- Can affect growth in children
- Osteoporosis (adults)
What tips can help reduce oral candidiasis when using inhaled corticosteroids?
Wash mouth and use a spacer
What are examples of long-acting beta 2-agonists (LABA)?
- Salmeterol
- Formoterol
What is the MOA of long-acting beta 2-agonists?
Beta 2 agonist - Same as SABA but longer acting (12hr +)
What should long-acting beta 2-agonists always be used with?
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)
What is an example of a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA)?
Monteleukast
What is the MOA of leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA)?
Blocks leukotriene receptors stopping eosinophil recruitment and inflammation
What are contraindications for leukotriene receptor antagonists?
Pregnancy and liver cirrhosis
What is a common side effect of leukotriene receptor antagonists?
Hypersensitivity reaction, GI upset
What is an example of a xanthine medication?
Theophylline
What is the MOA of xanthines?
Non-specific inhibitor of phosphodiesterase resulting in an increase in cAMP
What are the limits of using xanthines?
Drug interactions and narrow therapeutic window
What are common side effects of xanthines?
- Cardiac Arrhythmia
- Seizure
What are some reasons for poor response to asthma treatment?
- Poor compliance
- Poor inhaler technique
- Presence of triggers
- Wrong diagnosis - alt. GORD, COPD, bronchiectasis
What drugs are commonly used for COPD?
- SABA
- LABA
- SAMA
- LAMA
- ICS
- Oral bronchodilators
What is an example of a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)?
Tiotropium
What is the MOA of long-acting muscarinic antagonists?
Blocks M3 and M2 leading to smooth muscle relaxation (bronchodilation) and reduced glandular secretion
