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Bronchodilators
SummaryBronchodilators are medications used to relieve breathing problems such as shortness of breath or wheezing, and the sensation of chest tightness. They are often prescribed for people suffering from asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema or other conditions. They come in several forms, including pills, liquids, as an injection or in an inhaler. Some forms are only available by prescription while others are available over–the–counter. Bronchodilators are often categorized as either “rescue” or “control” medications. Rescue (also called short acting) medications provide immediate relief and are taken only to relieve symptoms. Control (or long acting) medications are taken regularly to prevent symptoms from occurring. There are three main types of bronchodilators:
Some potential side effects may result, and, as with all medications, patients are advised to consult with their physician before use. About bronchodilatorsBronchodilators are medications taken to improve breathing. They help expand the airways and improve the breathing capacity of patients with bronchial asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), emphysema, pneumonia, bronchitis and other lung diseases. They may also be used to treat breathing–related symptoms associated with an allergic reaction. Bronchodilators also help clean mucus from the lungs to improve breathing. As air passageways are opened, mucus moves more freely because it becomes thin and can be coughed out more easily. Bronchodilators are sometimes called either “rescue” or “control” medications. Rescue medications are usually short–acting and are used for quick relief from symptoms. They work by relaxing the bands of muscle surrounding the airways. Control medications are long–acting medications taken daily to prevent breathing difficulties from occurring and to prevent long–term damage to the airways. Patients continue to take these medications even when symptoms do not occur. It is vital to understand and follow all directions for taking bronchodilators, because patients often do not take their medication properly. For instance, many patients stop taking long–acting bronchodilators, which are preventive medications, when symptoms disappear. Long–acting bronchodilators are generally prescribed to be taken daily to be effective. They prevent inflammation and usually do not work to break an acute attack. Short–acting bronchodilators, on the other hand, are prescribed only for occasional relief of symptoms. Patients who frequently use their inhalers may need to have their treatment regimen altered to include a long–acting bronchodilator. For instance, an individual who must use a short–acting beta2 agonist more than twice a week to control intermittent asthma may need to begin long–term control therapy, according to the U.S. National Asthma Education and Prevention Program. Bronchodilators are sometimes used in combination with other drugs to achieve maximum results. For example, an asthma patient might be prescribed an inhaled corticosteroid to control inflammation in conjunction with a long–acting bronchodilator, taken by inhaler, to open narrowed passageways, especially during the night. Some bronchodilators are available over–the–counter, while others require a prescription. They come in several forms: Oral (tablets, capsules or liquids)
Oral forms of bronchodilators tend to have more side effects because they are delivered in higher doses and absorbed into the bloodstream. Inhaled bronchodilators are directly deposited in the lungs and tend to cause fewer side effects. Generally, treating a condition directly will cause fewer side effects than taking medication that works by being absorbed throughout the body. There are several types available and physicians prescribe the most effective medication and format to control symptoms. Bronchodilators can be inhaled directly into the lungs using the following devices: Inhaler. Used primarily to treat asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory problems. Inhalers release small amounts of the required drug when breathed in. They can be used to prevent an attack from occurring or to relieve attack symptoms. One of the most common types of drug/inhaler combinations (albuterol in a metered–dose inhaler).A new type of inhaler offering the same drug and effects should be on the market shortly. NebulizersInsufflation cartridges. Provide a greater dose than inhalers. Nebulizers. These devices deliver the largest dose and provide the fastest relief. A face mask or a mouthpiece provides a mixture of compressed air and the specific drug. Patients using an inhalation device for the first time may be advised to “prime” or test it first to ensure the right amount of medicine is delivered.
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Beta2 agonists (short and long acting)
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