Pharmacy Practice - Respiratory Agents

A set of flashcards covering key concepts, medications, treatment guidelines, and management strategies in respiratory health, specifically focusing on asthma, COPD, and allergic rhinitis.

What does GINA stand for in relation to asthma management?

Global Initiative for Asthma.

What are the two categories of medications mentioned for asthma management?

Maintenance and Rescue medications.

What class of medication does formoterol belong to?

Long-acting beta 2 agonist (LABA).

What is the difference in onset of action between albuterol and salmeterol?

Albuterol has a fast onset (<5 min), while salmeterol has a delayed onset (15 min).

What do LAMAs stand for?

Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonists.

What are the common adverse effects of beta-2 agonists?

Tachycardia, hypokalemia, tremors.

Which medication class targets airway inflammation in asthma?

Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS).

What is the mechanism of action for montelukast?

Blocks binding of leukotriene D4 to its receptor.

What is the primary purpose of leukotriene modifiers?

To inhibit leukotriene receptors, reducing inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

What condition is indicated for the use of biologics such as Omalizumab?

Severe allergic asthma.

What does the term 'exacerbation' refer to in asthma management?

A worsening of asthma symptoms.

What is the typical administration route for Mepolizumab?

Subcutaneous (SC) injection.

Which class of medications includes Tiotropium?

Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonists (LAMAs).

What are common symptoms of asthma exacerbations?

Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness.

Name one biological target for asthma treatment mentioned in the lecture.

IL-5, IL-13.

What is a black box warning associated with LABAs like salmeterol?

Increased risk of asthma-related deaths.

What type of asthma is associated with high blood eosinophils?

Severe eosinophilic asthma.

In terms of asthma pathophysiology, which cells are primarily involved in inflammation?

Eosinophils, mast cells, and T lymphocytes.

What does the term 'reversibility' mean in asthma context?

The ability of airflow limitation to improve with bronchodilators.

What medication is used for COPD that acts as a PDE4 inhibitor?

Roflumilast (Daliresp).

What is the function of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma treatment?

To reduce airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness.

What are short-acting beta 2 agonists (SABAs) primarily used for?

Quick relief of asthma symptoms.

What is the role of formoterol in asthma management?

Long-acting bronchodilator for maintenance therapy.

What is one of the primary indications for prescribing montelukast?

Exercise-induced bronchospasm.

What does the ARIA guidelines pertain to?

Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma.

What side effect should patients be counseled about when using ICS?

Oral thrush or oropharyngeal candidiasis.

What is the duration of action for ultra-long-acting beta agonists like Indacaterol?

At least 24 hours.

How are asthma exacerbations often triggered?

Allergens, irritants, cold air, exercise.

What is the typical frequency of dosing for Salmeterol?

Twice daily.

What is a potential adverse effect of leukotriene modifiers?

Psychiatric effects such as depression.

What is indicated in patients with persistent asthma despite high-dose ICS and LABA therapy?

Consideration of biological agents.

What is a common cause of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

Long history of smoking or other noxious exposures.

What symptom varies between asthma and COPD?

Asthma symptoms can provoke wheezing, while COPD has a chronic cough.

What is described as an important lifestyle management aspect for patients with asthma?

Avoidance of known triggers.

What is a dual-action asthma rescue inhaler mentioned in the lecture?

Airsupra (Albuterol/Budesonide).

Name a medication that targets IL-5.

Mepolizumab (Nucala).

Why is it important to rinse the mouth after using inhaled corticosteroids?

To prevent oral thrush.

What monitoring is required for biologic therapy in asthma?

Review response and side effects after 3-4 months.

What is the main target of Omalizumab therapy?

To inhibit IgE binding.

What class of agents does Terbutaline belong to?

SABA.

What is the mechanism of action of phosphodiesterase inhibitors?

Reduce cAMP breakdown, leading to bronchodilation.

What is a major drawback when using long-acting bronchodilators?

They may increase the risk of severe asthma attacks if used alone.

What is an adverse effect of all biologics used in asthma?

Injection site reaction.

What is the first-line management approach for allergic rhinitis in conjunction with asthma?

Intranasal corticosteroids.

What key point is made regarding the inhaler technique for patient management?

Proper technique ensures effective drug delivery.

In terms of inhaler types, what differentiates a metered-dose inhaler from a dry powder inhaler?

Delivery methods: pressurized spray vs. inhaled powder.

How are short-acting muscarinic antagonists (SAMAs) used in asthma management?

For quick relief of acute symptoms.

What role do T lymphocytes play in asthma?

They mediate inflammation and immune responses.

Why might a patient on long-term oral corticosteroids need to taper off slowly?

To avoid adrenal crisis due to HPA axis suppression.

What should clinicians monitor for patients on Roflumilast?

Adverse effects including weight loss and gastrointestinal symptoms.

What is the purpose of constricting muscles in the airways during an asthma attack?

It leads to bronchoconstriction and airway narrowing.

Name a key benefit of biologic agents over traditional therapies.

Targeted action against specific pathways in asthma.

What would prompt the initiation of systemic corticosteroids for asthma?

Severe exacerbations or lack of asthma control.

What role does patient education play in asthma management?

It empowers patients to manage their condition effectively.

What type of asthma is linked to seasonal changes?

Allergic asthma.

What important lifestyle change can improve asthma control?

Regular exercise in a controlled environment.

What is one of the common side effects of inhaled corticosteroids?

Oral thrush.

What is the advantage of combining a SABA with an ICS in asthma treatment?

Provides immediate relief while addressing inflammation.

How would you describe the airflow limitation in COPD?

Largely irreversible airflow limitation.

What should be the first action if a patient experiences an asthma attack?

Use their rescue inhaler immediately.

What is the goal of asthma management according to GINA guidelines?

Achieving and maintaining control of symptoms.

What is significant about persistent asthma symptoms?

They often require escalated treatment strategies.

What are the clinical implications of using biologic therapy in asthma?

May reduce exacerbations and improve quality of life.

What is crucial in educating patients about their inhalers?

Correct usage techniques to ensure proper drug delivery.