Respiratory System Drugs and Antimicrobials Notes

Learning Objectives

• Describe major classes of drugs used to treat diseases/illnesses of the respiratory system and antimicrobials.
• Describe the main nursing considerations related to these groups of drugs.
• Identify drugs to treat infectious diseases.
• Explain the relationship between antimicrobials and drug resistance.
• Describe the effects, uses, and indications for antimicrobials, and the relationship to drug resistance.

Core Principle

• "Identify the problem, then focus on treating it."

Major Classes of Respiratory Drugs

• Beta-Adrenergic Agonists
• Anticholinergics
• Methylxanthines
• Glucocorticoids
• Leukotriene Modifiers
• Antitussive
• Expectorant
• Mucolytics

Asthma

• Definition: Chronic respiratory disease causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath (SOB), and coughing.
• Treatment Strategies:
  • Relax muscles around the airways.
  • Block acetylcholine receptors to prevent airway constriction.
  • Decrease inflammation.

Major Classes of Respiratory Drugs Used to Treat Asthma

• Beta-Adrenergic Agonists
• Anticholinergics
• Methylxanthines
• Glucocorticoids
• Leukotriene Modifiers

Considerations for Asthma Drugs

• Common Side Effects of OTC Asthma Inhalers:
  • Appetite changes
  • Dizziness and headache
  • Hyperactivity
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Nervousness and shakiness
  • Sinus pain
  • Sore throat
  • Trouble sleeping

Common Cold

• Definition: Viral infection affecting the upper respiratory system.
• Treatment Strategies:
  • Treat the coughing.
  • Soothe sore throat.
  • Relieve congestion.

Major Classes of Drugs Used to Treat Upper Respiratory Conditions (Cold)

• Antitussive
• Expectorant
• Mucolytics

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

• Definition: Progressive lung disease, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, leading to airflow obstruction and difficulty breathing.
• Treatment Strategies:
  • Open airways.
  • Thin and loosen mucus secretion to improve breathing.
  • Administer antibiotics (if infection is present).
  • Give supplemental oxygen.

Infection

• Symptoms:
  • Increased WBC (White Blood Cell count)
  • High temperature (febrile)
  • Shortness of breath (SOB)
  • Pain upon breathing
  • Cough
  • Fluid in the lungs
• Treatment Strategies:
  • Open airways.
  • Thin and loosen mucus secretion to improve breathing.
  • Give supplemental oxygen.
  • Normalize WBC (treat the infection, likely with antimicrobials).