Airflow Disorders
What are the two main processes in asthma that medications target?
Inflammation and bronchoconstriction
What class of medications are nasal glucocorticoids used for?
Anti-inflammatory agents
What is the primary therapeutic effect of bronchodilators?
Relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, leading to widened airways
Which medications suppress cough by acting on the CNS?
Antitussives (opioid and non-opioid)
Which mucolytic drug can be given orally or inhaled, and is also used as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose?
Acetylcysteine
Asthma is considered reversible, while what chronic condition is often not?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Leukotriene modifiers are commonly prescribed for which patients?
Those with chronic asthma or allergy-related inflammation
Which type of Beta-2 Agonist provides quick relief of acute bronchospasm?
Short-acting Beta-2 Agonists (SABA), e.g., albuterol
What type of medication thins secretions, making them easier to cough up?
Expectorants
True or False: Decongestants work by vasodilation of nasal blood vessels.
False – they work by vasoconstriction
True or False: Asthma is always continuous and non-reversible.
False – it is intermittent and reversible
Corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation by doing what two things?
Decreasing airway edema and mucus production
What potential side effect is seen with Beta-2 agonists due to systemic stimulation?
Tachycardia, tremors, or palpitations
Name two common complications of antihistamines.
Drowsiness and dry mouth
Which upper respiratory medication should be avoided in patients with hypertension?
Decongestants (due to vasoconstriction effects)
Which class of medications can treat both asthma and COPD?
Bronchodilators (Beta-2 agonists, methylxanthines, inhaled anticholinergics)
What is one major complication of long-term corticosteroid use?
Immunosuppression, osteoporosis, or adrenal suppression
Why are long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) typically combined with inhaled corticosteroids?
To reduce the risk of asthma-related death and provide both bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory effects
Which class of drugs reduces nasal congestion by vasoconstriction of nasal blood vessels?
Decongestants
Which medication type is sometimes combined with an antihistamine in cold remedies to control both congestion and sneezing?
Decongestant + Antihistamine combination
What pathophysiologic change leads to wheezing in asthma?
Inflammation causes airway narrowing and bronchoconstriction
Which anti-inflammatory medication class is most effective for long-term control of asthma?
Inhaled corticosteroids
What teaching should you give a patient after using an inhaled anticholinergic (e.g., ipratropium)?
Rinse the mouth to reduce unpleasant taste and minimize dry mouth/throat
Which medication class helps loosen very thick mucus, often used in cystic fibrosis patients?
Mucolytics
Which over-the-counter antihistamine is known for causing the most sedation and is often used as a sleep aid?
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)