Respiratory Medications Overview

A set of flashcards summarizing key concepts and medications related to respiratory treatments, including classifications and functions.

SABA

Short-Acting Beta-Agonists, such as salbutamol, used for rescue and fast-acting relief.

LABA

Long-Acting Beta-Agonists, like salmeterol and formoterol, used for long-term control and must be paired with inhaled corticosteroids in asthma.

Anticholinergics

Medications like ipratropium and tiotropium used for COPD maintenance that help to dry secretions but are not for acute attacks.

Xanthine Derivatives

Medications such as theophylline that provide long-term backup but have a narrow therapeutic range with a risk of toxicity.

Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists

Drugs like montelukast that prevent flare-ups and are taken nightly, not for rescue.

Corticosteroids (ICS)

Inhaled Corticosteroids such as fluticasone and budesonide used for long-term inflammation control.

Oral/IV corticosteroids

Systemic corticosteroids like prednisone and methylprednisolone used for severe exacerbations, typically short-term.

PDE-4 Inhibitors

Drugs like roflumilast used to prevent COPD inflammation and mucus production.

Monoclonal Antibodies

Medications like omalizumab used for severe allergic asthma, requiring monitoring for anaphylaxis.

Expectorants

Medications such as guaifenesin that thin mucus and require increased fluid intake.

Antitussives

Medications including dextromethorphan and codeine that suppress dry cough.

Mucolytics

Drugs like acetylcysteine that break down mucus and also serve as an antidote for acetaminophen toxicity.