Beta-2 receptors and bronchodilators

• Beta-2 adrenoceptors mediate bronchodilation; key targets for bronchodilator therapy.
• Short-acting beta-agonists (SABA) provide rapid relief; not all agents are fast enough for acute exacerbations when used alone.
• Ipratropium (diprotropium) is an anticholinergic used as an adjunct in COPD; can be available as a nasal spray for allergic/viral rhinitis to dry secretions.
• Transcript mentions a once-daily inhaler described as LABA and as a long-acting muscarinic antagonist; note that terminology in the video is inconsistent with standard nomenclature.

Pharmacokinetics and inhaled therapies in COPD/asthma context

• Half-life varies with smoking status: non-smokers t{1/2} = 8 hours; smokers t{1/2} \,\approx\, 4{-}5 hours.
• Caffeine is used to treat recurrent apnea in premature infants.
• Monoclonal antibodies are lab-created antibodies used in asthma treatment.
• Be aware that the transcript contains inconsistencies (e.g., LABA vs LAMA naming) and drug-brand misstatements; rely on standard references for exact classifications.

Acute asthma management and status asthmaticus

• Acute exacerbations require quick-acting relief (SABA), supplemental oxygen, and systemic steroids.
• Status asthmaticus is a severe, life-threatening escalation; may require back-to-back or continuous nebulized bronchodilators, supplemental oxygen, and systemic steroids; magnesium sulfate can be used if refractory.
• The transcript notes that several medications (e.g., chronic LABAs, theophylline, montelukast) are not appropriate as sole acute therapies; ICS-LABA combinations are discussed as a maintenance option, with controversy around ICS use for acute relief.

Monoclonal antibodies in asthma

• Monoclonal antibodies are lab-created antibodies given to patients with asthma for targeted therapy; used based on phenotype/severity.

Asthma severity categories and treatment implications

• Mild persistent: symptoms > 2 times/week but ≤ 1 time/day.
• Moderate persistent: daily symptoms and >1 night per week.
• Severe: symptoms throughout the day, most days; nighttime symptoms frequent.
• Treatment escalation is based on severity; consider controller therapies (e.g., inhaled corticosteroids, possible ICS-LABA) and stepwise adjustments; acute management relies on rescue meds and anti-inflammatory strategies rather than routine ICS use for immediate relief.

Cough and mucus management

• Dextromethorphan is the dextro- isomer of an opioid agonist used to suppress cough (central action).
• Expectorants (e.g., Mucinex) help loosen and mobilize mucus.
• Decongestants can raise blood pressure; use caution in hypertension or with prior cardiovascular issues.
• Coricidin HBP is marketed as safe for high blood pressure and contains dextromethorphan per transcript; verify ingredients in product labeling.

Allergic conjunctivitis: features and treatment

• Hallmarks: cobblestoning of the conjunctiva, watery discharge and itching; redness common; no pus and lids not typically matted on waking.
• Treatments include antihistamines such as azelastine and olopatadine (brand names Pataday, Patanol).
• Some options are available OTC for short-term relief; monitor for persistence or worsening symptoms.