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Beta 2 Adrenergic Agonists

Medications used to relax bronchial smooth muscles for acute asthma attacks.

SABA

Short-acting Beta Agonists, like Albuterol and Levalbuterol, used for immediate relief of asthma symptoms.

LABA

Long-acting Beta Agonists, like Formoterol and Salmeterol, not intended for acute attack treatment.

Ipratropium

An anticholinergic medication that blocks the cholinergic response to relax smooth muscles in the bronchi.

Aminophylline

A methylxanthine used infrequently, having implications like cough, tachycardia, and CNS stimulation.

Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory medications used in inhaled forms to maintain control of asthma.

Montelukast

A leukotriene modifier that suppresses inflammation and can have side effects like headache and depression.

Cromolyn

Mast cell stabilizer that prevents the release of histamine and reduces inflammation.

Fluticasone

An inhaled corticosteroid used to suppress inflammation and prevent asthma attacks.

Acetylcysteine

A mucolytic that dissolves viscous mucus and is used in nebulized form.

Dextromethorphan

An antitussive that suppresses non-productive coughs via action in the brain.

Expectorants

Medications such as guaifenesin that aid in thinning and loosening mucus in the airways.

Beta Agonists

Medications that stimulate beta-2 receptors to promote bronchodilation.

Albuterol

A common short-acting beta agonist used for quick relief in asthma.

Levalbuterol

A rapid-acting beta agonist that is a specific formulation of albuterol.

Formoterol

A long-acting beta agonist with a 30-minute onset, not for acute attacks.

Salmeterol

A long-acting beta agonist that can provide relief for up to 12 hours.

Cholinergic Response

The physiological responses mediated by acetylcholine, which can be blocked by anticholinergics.

Prednisolone

A systemic corticosteroid used in various conditions for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Hoarseness

Common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids due to irritation of the throat.

Thrush

A possible fungal infection of the mouth resulting from inhaled corticosteroid use.

Warfarin

A blood thinner that may interact with leukotriene modifiers like Montelukast.

Mucolytics

Medications that help dissolve mucus in the respiratory tract.

Expectorate

To cough up and spit out mucus from the respiratory tract.

Sinusitis

A condition that can be exacerbated by inhaled corticosteroids or medical treatments.

Nebulization

A method of delivering medications directly to the lungs using a nebulizer.

CNS Depressants

Medications that can cause sedation and must be used cautiously with antitussives.

Nausea

An adverse side effect of several respiratory medications, including leukotriene modifiers.

Tachycardia

A potential side effect of beta agonists and methylxanthines.

Dry Mouth

A common side effect of anticholinergics and corticosteroids; often managed with mouth care.

Cough Reflex

The involuntary response to clear the airways, which may be suppressed by antitussives.

Fluid Intake

Encouraged with mucolytics and expectorants to help thin mucus.

Glaucoma

A caution for patients using anticholinergics and inhaled corticosteroids.

Mouth Care

Recommended after using inhaled medications to prevent candidiasis and dry mouth.

Suicidal Thoughts

A potential side effect of leukotriene modifiers like Montelukast.

Drowsiness

A side effect of some OTC antitussives, particularly those with CNS depressant properties.

Bronchodilation

The widening of air passages in the respiratory tract, often a target of asthma medications.

Tremors

A common side effect of beta agonists due to their stimulation of beta receptors.

Postnasal Drip

A condition that can be exacerbated by mucus production and requires appropriate treatment.

Respiratory Tract Infection

A risk associated with immunosuppression from corticosteroids.

Daily Steroids

Inhaled corticosteroids that need to be used regularly for maintaining control over asthma.

Inhaled Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory medication delivered via inhalation to reduce airway inflammation.

Mast Cells

Cells that release histamine during an allergic reaction, targeted by mast cell stabilizers.

Histamine

A chemical released by mast cells that contributes to allergy symptoms.