Resp. Meds

Beta 2 Adrenergic Agonists

Medications that stimulate beta-2 adrenergic receptors to relax bronchiole smooth muscles.

SABA

Short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonists used for acute asthma attacks.

Albuterol

A common SABA used to relieve acute bronchospasm.

Levalbuterol

A SABA that is an isomer of albuterol, used for similar purposes.

Epinephrine

A non-selective adrenergic agonist that can relieve acute bronchospasm.

LABAs

Long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonists not intended for acute relief.

Formoterol

A LABA used for maintenance treatment in asthma not for acute attacks.

Salmeterol

A LABA that has a slow onset and is used for long-term control.

Anticholinergics

Medications that block cholinergic responses and help relax airways.

Ipratropium

An anticholinergic agent used to relieve bronchospasm.

Tiotropium

A long-acting anticholinergic used for bronchospasm in COPD.

Methylxanthines

A class of drugs including aminophylline and theophylline that relax bronchial muscles.

Aminophylline

A methylxanthine used as a bronchodilator.

Theophylline

A methylxanthine with a narrow therapeutic range, used to treat asthma.

Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory medications that help reduce airway inflammation.

Budesonide

An inhaled corticosteroid used for controlling asthma symptoms.

Fluticasone

An inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in asthma management.

Leukotriene modifiers

Medications that suppress inflammation by blocking leukotriene receptors.

Montelukast

A leukotriene receptor antagonist used for asthma management.

Mast cell stabilizers

Agents like cromolyn that prevent the release of histamine from mast cells.

Combo Corticosteroid & LABA

Combination therapy to manage asthma with both anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.

Acetylcysteine

A mucolytic agent that dissolves thick mucus.

Expectorants

Medications that increase mucous secretions to aid in coughing.

Guanfacine

An expectorant used to thin secretions and promote coughing.

Antitussives

Medications that suppress cough reflex.

Benzonatate

An antitussive that works by numbing the throat and lungs.

Dextromethorphan

An over-the-counter antitussive effective for non-productive cough.

Common side effects of beta agonists

Tremors, tachycardia, and restlessness.

Common side effects of corticosteroids

Hoarseness, dry mouth, and oral thrush.

Important consideration for methylxanthines

Monitoring levels between 5-15 mcg/mL due to toxicity risk.

Cautions with anticholinergics

Use with caution in patients with glaucoma.

Leukotriene side effects

Headache, nausea, and potential suicidal thoughts.