Asthma

Question 1

Characteristic features of asthma?

Answer 1

- variation of lung function
- Sx reversible with treatment
- constant inflammation and excessive mucus production

Question 2

Which type of asthma most commonly commences in childhood and how well does it respond to ICS?

Answer 2

Allergic asthma
Associated with eosinophilic inflammation
Responds well to ICS

Question 3

Compare non-eosinophilic asthma and aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease

Answer 3

Same thing.
Can be caused by taking aspirin or other NSAIDs

Question 4

Describe late onset / eosinophilic asthma

Answer 4

Non-allergic, more common in women
Characterised by persistent airflow limitations and increased eosinophil numbers
May respond to ICS or a MAB

Question 5

Signs of good asthma control?

Answer 5

Using SABA no more than 2 times a week, no Sx at night or on waking, lifestyle is not limited by asthma

Question 6

Name a SAMA

Answer 6

Ipratropium

Question 7

Common suffix for LABAs?

Answer 7

-terol
E.g. salmeterol or formoterol

Question 8

Common suffix for LAMAs?

Answer 8

-ium
E.g. tiotropium, glycopyrronium

Question 9

Active ingredients in symbicort?

Answer 9

Budesonide and formoterol

Question 10

Name a SABA other than salbutamol

Answer 10

Terbutaline

Question 11

Aside from avoiding doubling up, which inhaler combination should not be used?

Answer 11

SAMA + LAMA

Question 12

Which drug class always needs to be combined with an ICS in asthma?

Answer 12

LABA

Question 13

Describe the 4x4x4 method for asthma first aide

Answer 13

4 puffs (1 puff at a time, 4 breaths for each puff in spacer). Wait 4 minutes, then try again for 4 more puffs.