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Bronchodilators
Types and differences of bronchodilatorsSome common bronchodilator medications appear below.
There are three types of bronchodilators: Beta2 agonists (short and long acting). These drugs relax the bronchial muscles to prevent narrowing and to open the airways. Short–acting beta2 agonists are most commonly used to relieve a sudden asthma attack or to prevent an attack while or after exercising. The short–acting beta2 agonists are inhaled medications that give quick “rescue” and offer temporary relief from asthma symptoms or flare–ups. Long–acting beta2 agonists take longer to begin working but usually relieve airway constriction for up to 12 hours. The most commonly used beta–2 agonists include albuterol, bitolterol, pirbuterol, metoproterenol, terbutaline and salmeterol. They can be taken orally or inhaled. Theophylline (long acting). A type of methylxanthine. This type of bronchodilator works by relaxing the lung muscles and making the airway passages more resistant to irritants. Chemically related to caffeine, it is long–acting and prevents asthma attacks but must be taken daily. Theophylline has been reported to cause side effects such as nervousness, nausea, heart palpitations and seizures. Therefore, it is not the first choice and usually used only for symptoms that do not respond to other bronchodilators. Anticholinergics (short–acting). Medications that smooth muscle contractions and reduce excess mucus in the bronchi (the tubes that transport air to and from the lungs). This causes the breathing passages to widen and relax, making it easier to breathe. Anticholinergics may take 1 to 3 hours to work and are therefore not rescue or quick–relief drugs. They are rarely used as the only medication in the treatment of breathing problems. Anticholinergics are most useful when used in conjunction with other bronchodilators to prolong their effects. Some types seem to work more effectively in improving airflow in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) rather than with asthma sufferers. They are available in inhalant form. Conditions treated with bronchodilatorsBronchodilators are prescribed for a variety of conditions, including: Asthma. A condition in which airway passages become blocked or obstructed causing shortness of breath. Bronchodilators open the airways by relaxing the smooth muscles in these airways. Chronic bronchitis. Inflammation of the bronchial tube linings that lead to a persistent cough. Short–acting bronchodilators relieve coughing and shortness of breath. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A progressive lung disease that decreases the ability of the lungs to perform ventilation. Bronchodilators smooth muscle constriction in the airways, increasing the flow of air. Mucus in the lungs. A build–up of mucus in the lungs causes a constriction of breathing passages and can lead to coughing. Bronchodilators work to diminish and thin mucus production. Emphysema. A condition in which the normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs is impaired due to damaged or collapsed air sacs. Bronchodilators improve air flow. Exercise-induced asthma (EIA). A temporary narrowing of the airways caused by excessive exercise that produces asthma–like symptoms. Bronchodilators administered before and after exercise keep the bronchial air passages open and prevent symptoms associated with this condition. Wheezing. A whistling sound caused by the friction of air going through narrowed airways. Bronchodilators widen the narrow passageways and relax the small tubes in the lungs, making breathing easier. Conditions of concern with bronchodilatorsPatients should not take bronchodilators, unless prescribed by a physician, if they have been diagnosed with any of the following conditions: Heart or blood vessel disease. Bronchodilators may worsen these conditions. High blood pressure. Some types of bronchodilators may elevate blood pressure. Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms). Some type of bronchodilators may worsen these conditions. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Chances of bronchodilator side effects may be increased. Pheochromocytoma (a rare and usually benign cell tumor that produces adrenaline, raising blood pressure and heart rate). Bronchodilators may raise blood pressure and heart rate. Urinary problems. Bronchodilators may not be recommended for people with urinary problems because they may reduce urine output. Glaucoma. Bronchodilators may not be recommended for people with glaucoma. Pregnancy. Some studies have shown birth defects in animals when given large doses of bronchodilators. Patients are advised to consult their physician. Breastfeeding. It is not known if these medicines pass into the breast milk. Mothers who take bronchodilators and who wish to breast feed are encouraged to discuss this with their physician.
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