Adrenergic/Anticholinergic Vocabulary Review

These flashcards cover important vocabulary related to adrenergic and anticholinergic medications, focusing on their definitions and roles in respiratory therapy.

Bronchodilation

The relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, leading to an expansion of the air passages.

Bronchoconstriction

The narrowing of the airways in the respiratory system, often resulting in difficulty breathing.

B2-adrenergic

A type of adrenergic receptor that, when stimulated, causes bronchodilation.

Catecholamine

A class of chemicals that include epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are involved in the body's stress response.

Anticholinergic

A drug that blocks the action of acetylcholine in the nervous system, often used to treat respiratory conditions.

Agonist

A substance that activates a receptor to produce a biological response.

Epinephrine

A hormone and neurotransmitter involved in the body's fight-or-flight response; used as a bronchodilator.

Ipratropium bromide

An anticholinergic medication used as an emergency treatment for asthma and bronchospasm.

Tolerance

A condition in which a patient becomes less responsive to a drug after prolonged use.

SVN (Small Volume Nebulizer)

A device that converts liquid medication into mist for inhalation.

Combivent

A combination medication that includes albuterol (a bronchodilator) and ipratropium (an anticholinergic agent).

Sympathomimetic

A type of drug that mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.

Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1)

A measure of how much air a person can exhale during a forced breath, used to assess lung function.

Xanthine

A class of drugs that include theophylline, used as bronchodilators.

Corticosteroid

A class of steroid hormones used to reduce inflammation in conditions like asthma.

Mucoactive agent

A medication that helps to thin or loosen mucus in the airways.