Pharmacology Basics for Respiratory Care

These flashcards cover the critical pharmacological concepts related to respiratory care, including drug categories, their functions, and important considerations for exams.

Bronchodilators

Medications that relieve bronchoconstriction by relaxing smooth muscle tissue in the airways.

Beta-2 Adrenergic Agonists

A class of bronchodilators used for immediate relief of bronchospasms (short-acting) and for long-term control in conditions like COPD and asthma (long-acting).

Anticholinergic Bronchodilators

Drugs that block acetylcholine to prevent bronchoconstriction, commonly used for COPD.

Methylxanthines

Phosphodiesterase inhibitors that increase cyclic AMP levels to promote bronchodilation, though rarely used due to side effects.

Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory agents used for long-term control of airway inflammation in asthma and COPD.

Leukotriene Modifiers

Medications that block leukotrienes to reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

Mucolytics

Agents that break down and thin mucus to improve clearance in respiratory conditions.

Diuretics

Medications that increase urine production to help eliminate excess fluid and sodium from the body.

Endotracheal Instillation

Method of administering medications directly into the trachea through an endotracheal tube.

NAVAL Mnemonic

An acronym used to remember medications that can be administered via an ET tube: Naloxone, Atropine, Vasopressin, Epinephrine, Lidocaine.

Xanthine Drugs

Drugs that increase cyclic AMP levels and can stimulate respiration, used in certain conditions like apnea of prematurity.

Neuromuscular Blocking Agents (NMBAs)

Paralytics used for intubation and certain medical procedures that require sedation and pain relief.

Naloxone (Narcan)

An antidote for opioid overdose, rapidly reversing the effects of opioids.

Opioid Overdose Signs

Severe respiratory depression, altered mental status, pinpoint pupils, and bradycardia.