| An Overview of Medications for Asthma Jon E. Sprague, Ph.D. December 18, 2002 Print-friendly version
Email this article | Page 1 | Bronchodilators (beta-2 agonists)
Anticholinergic agents
| | Page 2 | Methylxanthines
Mast Cell Stabilizers
Steroids
| | Page 3 | Leukotriene Blockers
Leukotriene Formation Inhibitor
| | Page 4 | Sources of Information
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Bronchodilators (beta-2 agonists)
- Long-acting beta-2 agonists
- Albuterol (Proventil Repetabs®)
- Salmeterol (Serevent®)
- Short-acting beta-2 agonists
- Albuterol (Ventolin®, Proventil®)
- Metaproternol (Alupent®)
- Pirbuterol (Maxair®)
- Terbutaline (Brethaire®)
How they work:
These drugs relax muscle, which allow the airways to open.
Adverse reactions may include palpitations, chest tightness, tremors, cough, and flushing.
Anticholinergic agents
How they work:
These drugs block the effect of a chemical in the body called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine causes the airways to narrow, therefore, blocking acetylcholine results in opening the airways.
Adverse reactions may include dry mouth and mucous membranes and constipation.
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