Respiratory Meds

Question 1

Short-Acting Beta-2 Agonists (SABA)

Answer 1

Use: Quick relief for asthma/COPD exacerbations
Examples: Albuterol, Levalbuterol
Key Points:

Rescue inhaler—not for daily use
Can cause tachycardia, jitteriness, palpitations
Monitor HR and avoid overuse

Question 2

Long-Acting Beta-2 Agonists (LABA)

Answer 2

Use: Maintenance therapy for asthma & COPD
Examples: Salmeterol, Formoterol
Key Points:

Not for acute attacks—used for long-term control
Often combined with inhaled corticosteroids

Question 3

Anticholinergics (Short-Acting - SAMA)

Answer 3

Use: Prevents bronchoconstriction & reduces mucus in COPD
Examples: Ipratropium (Atrovent)
Key Points:

Dry mouth is common—encourage hydration

Question 4

Anticholinergics (Long-Acting - LAMA)

Answer 4

Use: Long-term COPD control
Examples: Tiotropium (Spiriva)
Key Points:

Not for acute relief—used for maintenance
Can cause dry mouth & blurred vision

Question 5

Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS)

Answer 5

Use: First-line for persistent asthma & COPD maintenance
Examples: Fluticasone (Flovent), Budesonide (Pulmicort)
Key Points:

Rinse mouth after use to prevent oral thrush
Not for acute attacks—reduces long-term inflammation

Question 6

Systemic Corticosteroids

Answer 6

Use: Severe asthma/COPD exacerbations
Examples: Prednisone, Methylprednisolone
Key Points:

Monitor blood sugar (can cause hyperglycemia)
Taper dose—do not stop abruptly

Question 7

Leukotriene Modifiers

Answer 7

Use: Prevents airway inflammation in asthma
Examples: Montelukast (Singulair)
Key Points:

Taken at bedtime (can cause drowsiness)
Used for prevention, NOT acute attacks

Question 8

Mucolytics

Answer 8

Use: Breaks down mucus for easier clearance
Examples: Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
Key Points:

Also used for acetaminophen overdose
Can cause bronchospasms—use with caution in asthma patients