Methylxanthines Bronchodilators Quiz

What is the main mechanism of action of corticosteroids in treating asthma?

Which of the following drugs is classified as a leukotriene modifier?

What is the key characteristic of short-acting β2-agonists in asthma treatment?

Which type of beta2 agonists is more commonly used as relievers in asthma treatment?

What side effect is commonly associated with long-acting beta2-agonists in asthma management?

Which drug belongs to the class of methylxanthines used in asthma treatment?

In asthma management, which type of medication should not be used on a PRN (as needed) basis?

What is the main route of administration for short-acting beta2-agonists in the treatment of asthma?

Which adverse effect is most commonly associated with oral preparations of beta2 agonists?

What distinguishes long-acting beta2-agonists from short-acting ones in terms of duration of action?

Bronchodilators

Methylxanthines, Anticholinergics, and Adrenergic agonists are three types of bronchodilators
Adrenergic agonists stimulate β2 receptors, increasing cAMP and promoting bronchodilation
Methylxanthines inhibit PDE, increasing cAMP and relaxing smooth muscle, also inhibiting IgE release from mast cells
Anticholinergics are competitive antagonists of muscarinic Ach receptors, used in asthma and COPD

Methylxanthines

Inhibit PDE, increasing cAMP and relaxing smooth muscle
Inhibit IgE release from mast cells
Competitive antagonists at adenosine (A2) receptors
Examples: Theophylline, Caffeine, Aminophylline, Dypirylline, and Oxytriphylline
Used in CNS stimulation, bronchodilation, and diuresis
Side effects: nausea, vomiting, anorexia, cardiac effects, and kidney effects

Anticholinergics

Competitive antagonists of muscarinic Ach receptors
Used in asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema
Examples: Atropine, Ipratropium, and Tiotropium
Administration: IV, inhalation, and oral
Pharmacokinetics: onset 5-15 minutes, effect 1-2 hours, duration 4-5 hours
Side effects: dryness of mouth and airway, headache, and rarely tachycardia, dry eyes, and urinary retention

Adrenergic Agonists

Older non-selective drugs: Ephedrine, Epinephrine
Newer selective β2 adrenergic agonists: Fewer systemic side effects, promote bronchodilation
Examples: Terbutaline, Albuterol, Pirbuterol, and Bitolterol
Short-acting β2 agonists (SABAs): Relievers, used for symptoms, duration 3-5 hours
Long-acting β2 agonists (LABAs): Controllers, used for fixed schedule, duration 10-12 hours
Side effects: tachycardia, nervousness, irritability, tremor, and angina

Test your knowledge on Methylxanthines, a class of bronchodilators that include Theophylline and Caffeine. Learn about their mechanism of action, uses, and interactions with adenosine receptors and phosphodiesterase. Explore the competitive antagonism at adenosine (A2) receptors and their role in inhibiting IgE release from mast cells.