Anticholinergics in Asthma and COPD

__________ are taken on a daily basis for asthma control.

__________ make airways less sensitive to triggers and prevent inflammation that leads to an acute asthma episode.

__________ are bronchodilators that work by antagonizing the effects of acetylcholine.

__________ are used in the management of bronchial hyperreactivity.

__________ should be taken on a fixed schedule, not on an 'as needed' basis.

__________ are selective beta2-agonists that promote bronchodilation and suppress lung histamine.

__________ are bronchodilators that work by stimulating cAMP production.

__________ are used as relievers for acute asthma episodes.

__________ are drugs that may cause side effects like tachycardia and nervousness.

__________ are inhalatory therapies considered first-line for asthma management.

Anticholinergics like Atropine, Ipratropium, and Tiotropium are competitive antagonists of muscarinic Ach receptors used in asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, COPD, and exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Anticholinergics decrease secretions and provoke bronchodilation with few systemic side effects, primarily approved for COPD but also used in asthma.
Ipratropium has an onset of 30 minutes and lasts 6 hours, available in MDI form and as a combo with Albuterol, while Tiotropium is a newer option with a longer duration and is administered via Dry Powder Inhaler.
Methylxanthines like Theophylline and Aminophylline act by inhibiting PDE, smooth muscle relaxation, and competitive antagonism at adenosine receptors, with limited use due to high side effect profile and narrow therapeutic range.
Methylxanthines have CNS excitation and bronchodilation as primary actions, with additional effects on cardiac stimulation, vasodilation, and diuresis, often considered third-line options in asthma treatment.
Cromolyns, short-acting β2-agonists, leukotriene modifiers, long-acting β2-agonists, and anticholinergics are used for controlling and preventing asthma symptoms by antagonizing IgE and reducing airway sensitivity to triggers.
Adrenergic agonists like Epinephrine, Ephedrine, and selective Beta-2 agonists are bronchodilators used in asthma, with systemic effects promoting bronchodilation, suppressing histamine, and increasing ciliary motility.

Test your knowledge on the use of anticholinergics such as Atropine, Ipratropium, and Tiotropium in the treatment of asthma and COPD. Explore their mechanisms of action, clinical indications, and contraindications.