Drugs for asthma
Article Abstract:
The most effective drug for asthma treatment depends on the individual patient's situation. Inhaled corticosteroids are effective in treating both severe and mild-to-moderate asthma, especially asthma that does not respond to bronchodilators. Oral corticosteroids are effective for acute attacks, but prolonged daily use causes adverse metabolic effects. Cromolyn sodium and nedocromil reduce inflammation and bronchial hyper-responsiveness but have no bronchodilating effect. They are useful for preventive treatment. Beta-2 agonists are effective for treating acute bronchospasm and preventing exercise-induced asthma. One type, salmeterol, works well with inhaled corticosteroids. The newer formulations of beta agonists have fewer side effects than the older formulations, but heart rate abnormalities can occur. Theophylline is a less effective bronchodilator than beta-2 agonists, but it does decrease the frequency and severity of symptoms. Blood levels of the drug should be monitored because adverse effects occur above certain levels. Ipratropium bromide, a slow-acting bronchodilator, may be especially useful in treating older patients with chronic airflow obstruction.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1995
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Drugs for asthma
Article Abstract:
The pros and cons of asthma medications are reviewed. They include beta agonists, oral and inhaled corticosteroids, cromolyn sodium, nedocromil sodium, theophylline, and ipratropium. Newer asthma drugs that inhibit leukotrienes include montelukast (Singulair), zafirlukast (Accolate), and zileuton (Zyflo). Children and adults with mild asthma may only need inhaled beta agonists, taken when needed. Beta agonists can also benefit patients with exercise-induced asthma. Patients with more severe asthma may need inhaled corticosteroids. Patients who don't respond to this treatment may need oral corticosteroids.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2000
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Drugs for asthma
Article Abstract:
Most children and adults with mild asthma may only need occasional inhaled doses of a short-acting beta2-agonist such as albuterol, terbutaline, bitolterol mesylate or pirbuterol. These drugs should be used only when needed. If they do not control symptoms, an inhaled corticosteroid should be added. The long-acting beta2 agonist salmeterol should only be used if inhaled corticosteroids are used as well. Theophylline can control asthma symptoms but it has serious side effects. Drugs called leukotriene modifiers may be effective and these include zileuton, zafirlukast, and montelukast.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1999
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