Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary action of inhaled β2 agonists in asthma treatment?
What is the primary action of inhaled β2 agonists in asthma treatment?
How do corticosteroids aid in the management of asthma?
How do corticosteroids aid in the management of asthma?
Which agent is considered an alternative treatment for asthma due to its role as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor?
Which agent is considered an alternative treatment for asthma due to its role as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor?
What class of medications do antileukotrienes belong to in asthma treatment?
What class of medications do antileukotrienes belong to in asthma treatment?
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Which of the following treatments is indicated at the initial stage of asthma management?
Which of the following treatments is indicated at the initial stage of asthma management?
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What role does magnesium play in asthma management?
What role does magnesium play in asthma management?
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Which class of medications does cromolyn fall under in asthma management?
Which class of medications does cromolyn fall under in asthma management?
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What is the main goal of stepwise asthma management?
What is the main goal of stepwise asthma management?
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Study Notes
Asthma
- Asthma is a chronic airway disease.
- Bronchial hyper-reactivity leads to episodic airway obstruction and inflammation.
- The initial treatment is with bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
Bronchodilators
- Inhaled β2 agonists are the first-line treatment for adults and cause bronchodilation by stimulating β2 receptors found on bronchial smooth muscle.
- Inhaled muscarinic antagonists block muscarinic receptors on bronchial smooth muscles, inhibiting bronchoconstriction.
- Methylxanthines like theophylline are phosphodiesterase inhibitors and adenosine receptor antagonists, used as alternatives.
- Magnesium relaxes smooth muscle and is used only in acute emergencies.
Corticosteroids
- Reduce bronchoconstriction by reducing inflammation within bronchial walls.
- Inhaled corticosteroids are used early alongside short-acting β2 agonists (SABAs).
- Antileukotrienes reduce airway inflammation and swelling by blocking cysteinyl leukotriene receptors and inhibiting leukotriene production.
- Cromolyn reduces T-cell secretion of inflammatory mediators.
- Biologics target inflammatory mediators like IgE, IL-4, and IL-5. They are used in severe cases.
Management
- Stepwise approach based on disease severity, drug tolerance, and contraindications.
- Initial treatment is as-needed (PRN) SABAs.
- Further steps include adding inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), long-acting β2 agonists (LABAs), antimuscarinics, and oral corticosteroids.
- Severe cases progress to inhaled SABAs and ipratropium, followed by intravenous (IV) corticosteroids, magnesium, and IV epinephrine.
- Close monitoring is required, including partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2).
- Continuous oxygen and intubation may be necessary.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential treatments for asthma, including bronchodilators and corticosteroids. Participants will learn about various inhaled medications and their mechanisms of action. Test your knowledge on managing this chronic airway disease effectively.
