Mechanisms & Drug Classes
Do antihistamines stop histamine release?
What is NO—they block histamine receptors?
Fast-acting drug for acute asthma attack
What is SABA (short-acting beta₂ agonist)?
Common side effect of antihistamines
What is drowsiness?
Key teaching with mucolytics
What is increase fluids + use humidifier?
Patient with asthma only uses LABA—risk
What is no rescue during acute attack?
Primary action of decongestants
What is symptom relief (no antiinflammatory effect)?
Why LABAs cannot be used in emergencies
What is slow onset—NOT fast acting?
Antihistamines in glaucoma patients can cause
What is increased intraocular pressure → blindness risk?
Why antihistamines and alcohol should not be combined
What is increased sedation risk?
Older adult taking antihistamines becomes confused
What is drug-induced cognitive impairment?
What anti-inflammatory drugs do to mucous membranes
What is dry them out?
Drug used ONLY for asthma prevention, not treatment
What is cromolyn sodium?
Fluticasone risk
What is secondary fungal infection?
Why OTC meds must be reported
What is risk of interactions and ↑BP?
Patient on leukotriene inhibitor + rifampin—concern
What is increased liver toxicity risk?
How leukotriene inhibitors can become dangerous
What is liver dysfunction (drug interactions)?
Correct order: SABA + corticosteroid inhaler
What is SABA first, then corticosteroid?
Codeine antitussive major side effect
What is severe constipation?
Why young children should avoid decongestants
What is risk of overdose/toxicity?
Patient reports tremors and rapid heart rate after inhaler
What is expected beta₂ agonist effect (monitor)?
How beta₂ agonists affect the body systemically
What is sympathetic stimulation (↑HR, tremors, ↑BP, anxiety)?
Patient using only montelukast during attack—problem?
What is no rescue medication → life-threatening delay?
Serious side effects of ipratropium to report
What are urinary retention & tachycardia?
Why patients should carry SABA at all times
What is prevent life-threatening asthma attack?
Asthma patient arrives in distress but left inhaler at home—priority
What is administer rescue bronchodilator immediately?