What is the rationale for drug use in Asthma?
- Symptom control and relief
- Prevention of exacerbations, acute asthma and death.
- Improve and maintain lung function and quality of life.
Explain the pathophysiology of Asthma.
- Chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways
- Inflammation is associated with bronchial hyper-reactivity
- Asthma is reversible
How is asthma diagnosed?
- combination of medical history, physical examination, and lung function tests
- Lung function tests, such as spirometry and peak flow measurements
What are the clinical characteristics of asthma?
- Early onset
- Recurrent episodes of wheezing
- Breathlessness
- Coughing
- Chest tightness
What is the underlying pathophysiology of asthma?
- Asthma is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways
- leading to bronchoconstriction and hyperresponsiveness.
- This inflammation involves immune cells, such as mast cells, eosinophils,
What are some common risk factors for developing asthma?
- genetic predisposition (family history of asthma or allergies)
- exposure to allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
- respiratory infections in early childhood, exposure to tobacco smoke, and a history of atopy (a genetic tendency to develop allergic reactions).
How do short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) work in asthma treatment?
- SABAs relax and widen the airways by targeting beta receptors on airway smooth muscles, providing rapid relief of acute symptoms.
What are common triggers that can exacerbate asthma symptoms?
- allergens (pollen, mould, animal dander)
- respiratory infections, cold air, exercise, smoke (tobacco or wood),
- strong odours, air pollution, and irritants like perfumes or cleaning products.
What is the role of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in asthma management?
- ICS reduce airway inflammation
- preventing exacerbations and
- controlling chronic symptoms.
What are long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) used for in asthma treatment?
- LABAs provide sustained bronchodilation and are used as adjunct therapy for long-term control of asthma symptoms.
What is the main inflammatory mediator of Asthma?
- Eosinophils
What are the drugs that may trigger Asthma?
- Aspirin
- NSAIDs
- Beta-blockers
What are the drug choice for Asthma?
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), Short-acting beta 2 agonists (SABAs), Long-acting beta 2 agonists (LABAs) if using LABA for Asthma, always use with an ICS, Montelukast, Long-acting anticholinergics aka long-acting muscarinic antagonists or LAMAs, Monoclonal antibodies
What is the purpose of combination inhalers in asthma treatment?
- Combination inhalers contain both ICS and a LABA
- addressing both inflammation and bronchodilation in one inhaler.
What is the main purpose of SABAs in asthma treatment?
- SABAs like Salbutamol and terbutaline provide rapid relief by relaxing airway muscles, helping to relieve acute bronchoconstriction.
When are SABAs typically used?
- SABAs are used as rescue inhalers during acute asthma symptoms or before exercise to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
How do LABAs differ from SABAs in asthma management?
- LABAs such as Formoterol and salmeterol provide prolonged bronchodilation and are used as part of long-term control therapy.
Are LABAs meant to be used as monotherapy in asthma treatment?
- No, LABAs are generally used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) for better control of asthma symptoms.
What is the primary role of ICS in asthma management?
- ICS, like Budesonide and Fluticasone, reduce airway inflammation, prevent exacerbations, and help control chronic asthma symptoms.
Are ICS used for immediate relief during acute asthma attacks?
- No, ICS are not fast-acting and are mainly used for long-term control of asthma.
How do Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists, such as Montelukast, work in asthma therapy?
LTRAs block the action of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory molecules, helping to reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction.
What is the primary function of SAMAs and LAMAs in managing respiratory diseases?
- SAMAs like Ipratropium and LAMAs like Tiotropium act as bronchodilators by blocking muscarinic receptors in the airways.
If asthma control is not achieved, what should be considered?
- Check inhaler technique, address adherence issues, identify triggers, and assess comorbid conditions. Consider stepping up treatment.
What step-up options are available if control is not achieved with current treatment?
- Increase ICS dose, add a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) if not already included, or consider other add-on therapies like leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs).
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Diabetes74
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Antihistamines30
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Contraception44
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Drugs9
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ASTHMA38
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COPD32
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Afib41
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Anticoagulants23
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CHD65
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hEART fAILURE53
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Dyslipidemia20
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Diuretics6
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Hypertension14
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RAAS6
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Antidepressants and depression17
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Parkinson’s disease17
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Pain and opioid analgesics6
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Final Exam- the basics :)36
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Final Exam - Diabetes61
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Final Exam - Histamine & Antihistamine20
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Final Exam - Asthma & COPD38
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Final Exam - RAAS14
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Final Exam - Hypertension42
