Bronchodilators in Asthma Management

Study Notes

Indications

Used for asthma management.
Effective in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Treats bronchospasm in various conditions.

Classification

Classified as a bronchodilator.
Falls under xanthine derivatives.

Mechanism of Action

Relaxes smooth muscles in bronchi and pulmonary vessels.
Stimulates the diaphragm to aid breathing.

Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea and vomiting.
Can cause irritability and tachycardia.
May lead to serious complications like ventricular arrhythmias and seizures.

Adult Dosage

Initial loading dose: 6 mg/kg IV.
Followed by a continuous infusion of 0.4-0.9 mg/kg/h IV.

Pediatric Dosage

Initial loading dose: 6 mg/kg IV.
Continuous infusion of 1 mg/kg/h IV thereafter.

Contraindications

Avoid in patients with uncontrolled arrhythmias.
Not recommended for those with hypertension or seizure disorders.
Contraindicated in hyperthyroidism and peptic ulcers.

Pharmaceutical Formulations

Available in tablet form (100 mg, 200 mg).
Also available as suppositories (100 mg, 200 mg).
Solutions come in a concentration of 105 mg/5mL.
Injection formulation is at 25 mg/mL.

Special Considerations

Has a very narrow therapeutic range, requiring careful monitoring.
Patient history should include other methylxanthine uses to prevent interactions.
Sudden increases in blood pressure can indicate potential toxicity.

Drug Interactions

May decrease the effects of lithium, phenytoin, and adenosine.
Reduced effects when used with phenobarbital, barbiturates, and rifampin.
Increased effects noted with cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, and certain dietary factors like tobacco and charcoal-broiled foods.

Description

This quiz explores the use of bronchodilators in the management of asthma and COPD. It covers their mechanism of action, side effects, dosage for adults and children, and contraindications. Test your understanding of these important medications and their applications.