Inhalation Therapies Flashcards
(28 cards)
What are examples of Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA)?
Salbutamol, Terbutaline (4hrs)
SABA provides quick relief from asthma symptoms
What are examples of Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA)?
Salmeterol, Formoterol, Vilanterol (12hrs)
LABA provides prolonged relief for asthma symptoms
What is the maximum daily dosage for SABA?
8 PUFFS MAX DAILY
(1-2 puffs four times a day)
This is important to prevent overuse and associated risks
What caution should be taken when using SABA/LABA in diabetic patients?
Can cause DKA especially after IV administration
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious condition
What electrolyte imbalance can SABA/LABA cause?
Hypokalaemia = increased risk of QT prolongation + arrhythmias
Hypokalaemia can increase the risk of QT prolongation and arrhythmias
List some side effects of SABA/LABA.
- Fine tremor
- Palpitations
- Headache
- Seizure
- Anxiety
These side effects can impact patient quality of life
What are some drugs that cause QT interval prolongation?
- Corticosteroids
- Diuretics
- Theophylline
- Amiodarone
Awareness of these interactions is crucial for patient safety
What is the risk associated with overuse of SABA according to MHRA?
Risk of severe asthma attacks and increased mortality
Patients should be monitored for excessive use
What is a Short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA)?
Ipratropium
SAMA is used for quick relief in respiratory conditions
List some Long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA).
- Tiotropium
- Aclidinium
- Glycopyrronium
- Umeclidinium
LAMA provides longer-lasting relief compared to SAMA
What are common side effects of SAMA/LAMA?
Antimuscarinic complications
e.g Constipation, dry mouth, increased ocular pressure (report halos or blurred vision)
These can include dry mouth and increased ocular pressure
What is the recommended dosing frequency for inhaled corticosteroids like Beclomethasone?
Twice daily apart from ciclesonide (once daily)
Proper dosing is key for effective management
What should be monitored in children receiving long-term treatment with inhaled corticosteroids?
Height and weight annually
Slow growth may necessitate a referral to a pediatrician
What is a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids?
- Taste and voice alteration
- Sore mouth
- Candidiasis
Rinsing the mouth after use can help reduce candiasis
What warning is associated with Montelukast?
Risk of neuropsychiatric reactions. Report speech and behavioural changes
Patients should be monitored for behavioral changes
What is the therapeutic range for Theophylline?
10-20 mg/litre
Monitoring plasma levels is essential for safety
List some side effects of Theophylline.
- Vomiting
- Tremor
- Palpitations
- Arrhythmias
Side effects can vary in severity and impact
What are examples of other antimuscarinic drugs?
TCAs, Solifenacin, hyoscine hydrobromide
What are examples of inhaled corticosteroids?
Beclomethasone, budesonide, ciclesonide, fluticasone, mometasone
Which ICS should be prescribed by brand?
Beclomethasone
What should be done if a pt is on an aerosol inhaler and is experiencing paradoxical bronchospasm?
Switch to dry powder inhalation
What syndrome can occur during LTRA use?
Churg-Strauss syndrome
symptoms include:
eosinophilia, vasculitic rash, worsening pulmonary symptoms, cardiac complications, or peripheral neuropathy
How often must drug plasma levels be checked on theophylline?
4-6hrs after dose
5 days after starting treatment
at least 3 days after a dose adjustment
Are theophylline brands interchangeable?
No. Same brands must be maintained as they have different bioavailability
Theophylline must be prescribed by brand
