Questions and Answers
Which bronchodilator is primarily indicated for long-term asthma treatment?
What is a common side effect of both β2 sympathomimetics and methylxanthines?
Which of the following drugs is an anticholinergic used specifically for COPD?
What side effect is commonly associated with Montelukast?
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Which bronchodilator is known for causing gastrointestinal disturbances as a side effect?
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Which serotonin function regulates mood stability?
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Which type of receptor is primarily targeted by anti-nausea medications?
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Which of the following is a common side effect associated with serotonin antagonists?
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What is the primary action of serotonin antagonists?
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Which drug is classified as an atypical antipsychotic that acts on 5-HT2 receptors?
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Study Notes
Overview of Asthma
- A chronic reactive airway disorder leading to episodic airway obstruction due to bronchospasms.
- Affects individuals of all ages; approximately 50% of patients are children under age 10, with a higher prevalence in boys.
- One-third of cases develop between ages 10 and 30.
Causes of Asthma
- Genetic predisposition and family history.
- Exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
- Respiratory infections, particularly viral.
- Environmental factors: air pollution and occupational irritants.
- Contributing factors: obesity, diet, exercise, and cold air exposure.
Symptoms of Asthma
- Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
- Chest tightness or pain, often described as discomfort.
- Wheezing, a whistling sound during exhalation.
- Persistent coughing, especially at night.
- Sleep disturbances due to breathing issues.
Treatment Approaches
-
Quick-relief (Rescue) Medications:
- Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) like albuterol for immediate relief.
- Anticholinergics such as ipratropium for rapid action.
-
Long-term Control Medications:
- Inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide) to reduce inflammation.
- Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs), often combined with inhaled corticosteroids.
- Leukotriene modifiers (e.g., montelukast) to block inflammatory responses.
- Combination inhalers that contain both corticosteroids and LABAs.
- Theophylline, though less common, aids in asthma control.
Classification of Bronchial Asthma
-
Atopic/Extrinsic/Allergic:
- The most common type (70%).
- Triggered by environmental allergens and associated with elevated serum IgE levels.
-
Non-atopic/Intrinsic/Non-allergic:
- Accounts for 30% of cases.
- Triggered by respiratory infections; absence of family history and normal IgE levels.
-
Drug-induced Asthma:
- Often associated with aspirin sensitivity and bronchoconstrictor reactions.
Treatment Strategies
- Avoidance of allergens for prevention of allergic reactions.
- Neutralization of IgE using agents like Omalizumab.
- Suppression of inflammation through corticosteroids.
- Use of mast cell stabilizers to prevent mediator release.
- Antagonists for released mediators, including leukotriene antagonists and antihistamines.
- Anticholinergics to block constrictor neurotransmitters.
- Sympathomimetics for bronchodilation.
- Direct-acting bronchodilators such as methylxanthines.
Types of Bronchodilators
-
β2 Sympathomimetics:
- Salbutamol (Albuterol): Quick relief agent; side effects include tachycardia and headache.
- Terbutaline: Used for asthma; may cause nervousness and dizziness.
- Salmeterol and Formoterol: Long-acting bronchodilators for asthma; possible side effects include muscle pain and tremor.
-
Methylxanthines:
- Theophylline and aminophylline: Help manage asthma; side effects include nausea and insomnia.
-
Anticholinergics:
- Ipratropium bromide and tiotropium bromide: Used for COPD with side effects including dry mouth and urinary retention.
Leukotriene Antagonists
- Montelukast: Used for asthma and allergies; potential side effects are headache and dizziness.
- Zafirlukast: Similar uses; side effects may include liver dysfunction and nausea.
Mast Cell Stabilizers
- Sodium cromoglycate and Ketotifen: Used for asthma; side effects may include throat irritation and drowsiness.
Serotonin Overview
- Serotonin is a neurotransmitter crucial for regulating mood, anxiety, and happiness.
- Primarily produced in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), blood platelets, and the central nervous system (CNS).
Functions of Serotonin
- Mood Regulation: Plays a significant role in emotional well-being and maintaining mood stability.
- Sleep Regulation: Influences sleep cycles, contributing to overall sleep quality.
- Appetite Control: Impacts appetite and digestion processes.
- Cognitive Functions: Involved in memory, learning, and pain perception.
Serotonin Receptors
- Classified into seven families known as 5-HT receptors (e.g., 5-HT1, 5-HT2, 5-HT3).
- Found primarily in the brain and the gastrointestinal tract.
Serotonin Antagonists
- Defined as substances that block serotonin from binding to its receptors.
- Drugs are classified based on the specific receptors they inhibit.
Types of Serotonin Antagonist Drugs
-
Anti-nausea Medications (5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists):
- Ondansetron
- Granisetron
-
Migraine Treatments (5-HT2 Receptor Antagonists):
- Methysergide
- Pizotifen
-
Atypical Antipsychotics (5-HT2 Receptor Antagonists):
- Risperidone
- Olanzapine
- Clozapine
-
GIT Disorders:
- Alosetron
-
Anti-depressants:
- Mirtazapine
Side Effects of Serotonin Antagonists
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Gastrointestinal disturbances: constipation or diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Weight gain
- Headaches
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Description
Test your knowledge on asthma, focusing on bronchial asthma and related pharmaceuticals. This quiz, prepared by M. Ahmad Mansoor and presented by Abu-Baker, includes key concepts and drug classifications. Perfect for students learning about respiratory conditions.
