Pharm > Asthma > Flashcards

Asthma Flashcards

(76 cards)

Study These Flashcards
1
Q

What is the common label for breathing disorders that includes asthma?

A

breathing disorder

This includes conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, and certain allergies.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What are the two major bronchis responsible for?

A

Conducting air to the left and right lungs

They branch into secondary and tertiary bronchis, leading to bronchioles.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What is the primary site for air exchange in the lungs?

A

alveoli

Alveoli are small air sacs where oxygen and CO2 exchange occurs.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What happens to airway resistance as we breathe in?

A

Increases

Resistance is highest in medium-sized bronchis due to partial contraction.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What type of muscle surrounds the bronchioles?

A

smooth muscle

This muscle is activated through the parasympathetic nervous system.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What is the role of mucus in the airways?

A

Traps particulate matter

Mucus helps prevent bacteria and other particles from reaching the alveoli.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What is the normal state of the airway regarding contraction?

A

Partially contracted

This state helps trap particulate matter and prevents lung disease.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What is the sympathetic nervous system response related to airway?

A

Wider open airway

This response is part of the fight-or-flight mechanism.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by?

A
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Emphysema

COPD can severely limit daily function due to oxygen intake issues.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

How many people in the US suffer from asthma as of 2021?

A

25 million

About 8% of the population is affected, with increasing cases worldwide.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What percentage of children are affected by asthma?

A

6.5%

Approximately 4.7 million children in the US have asthma.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What is the hygiene hypothesis related to asthma?

A

Overreaction of the immune system

Modern cleanliness may lead to increased allergies and asthma due to lack of exposure to pathogens.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What are the common symptoms of asthma?

A
  • Wheezing
  • Breathlessness
  • Chest tightness
  • Coughing

Symptoms can indicate the need for a rescue inhaler or further treatment.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What is the forced expiratory volume used for in asthma diagnosis?

A

Measures airflow from the lungs

It helps assess the severity of airway obstruction.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

What type of medication is commonly used as a rescue inhaler for asthma?

A

Short-acting beta-2 agonists

Albuterol is a common example.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What is the genetic component of asthma?

A

Runs in families

Over 25 genes are implicated, mostly related to inflammation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What type of cells are involved in the allergic reaction associated with asthma?

A

Mast cells

These cells produce compounds like histamines that contribute to asthma symptoms.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What is the role of dendritic cells in allergic reactions?

A

Come into contact with allergen , create allergen peptide

Present allergens to T helper cells using MHC2 complex receptor

They help initiate the immune response to allergens.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What do antigen-presenting cells do with allergens?

A

They present allergens to T helper cells

Antigen-presenting cells leave the mucus, enter the lymphoid system, and travel to the closest lymph node.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What type of molecule do antigen-presenting cells use to present allergens?

A

Major histocompatibility complex type 2 (MHC II)

This molecule is crucial for presenting the allergen peptide to T helper cells.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What cytokine do T helper 2 cells produce to stimulate B cells?

A

Interleukin-4 (IL-4)

IL-4 plays a role in activating B cells and T helper cells.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What are the two types of lymphocytes involved in the immune response?

A
  • T cells
  • B cells

T helper cells assist B cells in producing antibodies.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What type of antibody is produced during allergic reactions?

A

IgE (immunoglobulin E)

IgE is specifically associated with allergic responses.

Created by plasma antibody releasing cells that were created by B cells

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

What happens during mast cell degranulation?

A

Release of histamines and leukotrienes

These mediators are responsible for allergy symptoms such as mucus secretion and capillary dilation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
True or false: **Antihistamines** are very effective in treating asthma.
FALSE ## Footnote Antihistamines are more effective for allergies than for asthma due to the involvement of multiple mediators.
26
What is the role of **leukotrienes** in allergic reactions?
They contribute to inflammation and bronchoconstriction ## Footnote Leukotrienes are part of the late-phase allergic response.
27
What is the **early reaction** in asthma characterized by?
Mast cell degranulation and smooth muscle constriction ## Footnote This reaction occurs quickly after allergen exposure.
28
What is the **late reaction** in asthma associated with?
Inflammation and white blood cell infiltration ## Footnote This reaction can occur hours after the initial exposure.
29
What type of medication is typically used to suppress the **late reaction** in asthma?
Inhaled corticosteroids ## Footnote These medications help reduce inflammation in the airways.
30
What cells produce **mucus** in the airways?
Goblet cells ## Footnote Mucus traps pathogens and particles, serving as a defense mechanism.
31
What is the primary receptor type that mediates **bronchodilation**?
Beta-2 adrenergic receptors ## Footnote Activation of these receptors leads to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle.
32
What happens to the **forced expiratory volume** during an early asthma reaction?
It decreases significantly ## Footnote This decrease can rebound within a few hours.
33
What is the **role of epinephrine** in the lungs?
Produces bronchodilation and constricts blood vessels By activated B2 and A1 ## Footnote This helps to reduce fluid accumulation and improve airflow.
34
What is the **arachidonic acid cascade** involved in?
Production of leukotrienes and prostaglandins ## Footnote This cascade is part of the inflammatory response in allergic reactions.
35
What are the **two main effects** of epinephrine in the context of asthma treatment?
* Bronchodilation in the airways * Vasoconstriction in blood vessels ## Footnote Epinephrine dilates the airway while constricting blood vessels, which helps reduce fluid and white blood cells in the area.
36
List some **triggers** that can stimulate an **asthma attack**.
* Allergens * Respiratory infections * Irritants * Certain medications * Exercise * Gastroesophageal reflux disease * Anxiety * Stress ## Footnote These factors can lead to hyperactive airway responses.
37
True or false: A **scaring response** can help an asthmatic individual by opening their airways.
FALSE ## Footnote While it may provide temporary relief, the parasympathetic nervous system response can lead to significant airway constriction afterward.
38
What is **croup** characterized by?
* Seal-like barking cough * Difficulty breathing ## Footnote Croup is often a response to a viral infection and can be relieved by exposure to cooler air and nebulized epi
39
COPD cause and diagnosis
* Lasts for at least three months of the year * Occurs for at least two consecutive years * Characterized by chronic productive cough ## Footnote Often associated with cigarette smoking and poor air quality.
40
What is the main characteristic of **emphysema**?
* Abnormal permanent enlargement of the gas exchange airways ## Footnote This condition leads to the destruction of alveolar walls and reduced elasticity.
41
What are the **two categories** of asthma treatments?
* Short-term relievers * Long-term controllers ## Footnote These categories include various medications tailored for immediate relief and ongoing management.
42
What are **SABA** and **LABA**?
* SABA: Short-acting beta-2 agonists * LABA: Long-acting beta-2 agonists ## Footnote The main difference is the duration of action, with LAVA lasting longer.
43
List some **bronchodilators** used as short-term relievers.
* Beta agonists * Anti-muscarinics (e.g., atropine, ipratropium) * Methylxanthines (e.g., theophylline) ## Footnote These medications help to open the airways during an asthma attack.
44
What is the role of **beta-2 agonists** in asthma treatment?
* Relax airway smooth muscle * Inhibit substances from mast cells * Increase mucociliary transport ## Footnote They help clear the lungs and improve airflow.
45
What is the mechanism of action for **theophylline**?
* Inhibits phosphodiesterase * Increases cyclic AMP * Blocks adenosine receptors ## Footnote This leads to bronchodilation and reduced bronchoconstriction.
46
What are **muscarinic antagonists** used for?
* Block acetylcholine effects * Cause bronchodilation ## Footnote These medications counteract the bronchoconstriction caused by the parasympathetic nervous system.
47
What is the **therapeutic index** of methylxanthines?
* Low therapeutic index ## Footnote This means the difference between effective and toxic doses is small, requiring careful monitoring.
48
What is the **primary effect** of caffeine and tiobromine in asthma treatment?
* Mild bronchodilation by blocking PDE and increasing cAmp -methylxanthines ## Footnote These compounds can provide some relief, especially in cultures with limited access to other medications.
49
What is the **duration of action** for long-acting beta-2 agonists?
* 12 to 24 hours ## Footnote These medications provide prolonged relief for asthma symptoms. Metaproteronol Probiturol Salmetorol Formeterol
50
What is the **mainstay** treatment for asthmatic patients?
* Beta agonists ## Footnote These are the primary medications used for immediate relief during asthma attacks.
51
What is the **therapeutic range** for theophylline?
5 to 20 milligrams per liter ## Footnote Toxic levels are considered to be above 20 milligrams per liter.
52
True or false: **Muscle relaxation** is an active process.
FALSE ## Footnote Muscle relaxation occurs due to blood pumping against relaxed smooth muscles.
53
What are the **muscarinic antagonists** used for bronchodilation?
* Atropine * Scopolamine *Ipatropium bromide * Tiotropium ## Footnote These are effective bronchodilators used in respiratory conditions.
54
What is the duration of action for **Teotropium**?
Up to 24 hours ## Footnote Teotropium is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist.
55
What is the **mainstay** of long-term control therapy for asthma?
Corticosteroids ## Footnote They suppress the immune response and reduce airway inflammation.
56
What do corticosteroids suppress in the body?
* Immune response * Mast cells * White blood cell infiltration ## Footnote This helps in making the airway less susceptible to exacerbations.
57
What is the effect of corticosteroids on **phospholipase A2**?
Increase annexin which cause Inhibition of phospholipase a2 (pla2 causes inflammation) This reduces the production of leukotrienes and prostaglandins. Steroids also -Increase leukoprotease inhibitors - (leukoprotease causes inflammation ) -increase IL-10 - anti inflammatory -Decrease INH- nfkb - proinflammatory
58
What cytokine is increased by glucocorticoid receptor binding that has anti-inflammatory effects?
IL-10 ## Footnote IL-10 is an immunosuppressive cytokine.
59
What are the potential **side effects** of long-term corticosteroid therapy?
* Slowed growth rate * Osteoporosis * Increased susceptibility to infections like thrush in mouth ## Footnote These side effects highlight the need to limit exposure to systemic corticosteroids.
60
What is **oral thrush** associated with in the context of corticosteroid use?
Overgrowth of bacteria (candiasis) or fungi ## Footnote Long-term inhaled corticosteroid use can suppress immune cells in the oral cavity.
61
What is the **primary anti-IgE monoclonal antibody** mentioned?
Xolair (Elmeluzumab) ## Footnote It binds to IgE on mast cells to prevent degranulation.
62
What do leukotriene pathway inhibitors target?
* Production of leukotrienes by blocking 5-LO = Zilenton * Binding to leukotriene receptors - montelukast (Singulair) ## Footnote They help in controlling asthma and allergies.
63
What is the **short-acting beta-2 agonist** mentioned for asthma?
Albuterol ## Footnote It is used as a rescue inhaler for asthma symptoms.
64
What combination inhaler is for long term asthma treatment?
Fluticasone with Salmeterol Steroid with LABA ## Footnote This combination is used for long-term control of asthma.
65
What is the **goal** of using inhaled corticosteroids?
Reduce bronchial reactivity and control asthmatic response ## Footnote They are not used for immediate relief of asthma symptoms.
66
What are the **side effects** of inhaled corticosteroids?
Not insignificant ## Footnote Caution is advised in progressing to low-dose inhaled corticosteroids unless the patient can benefit significantly.
67
When might a **low-dose inhaled corticosteroid** be added?
* If symptoms occur two or three times a month ## Footnote The goal is to wean off the corticosteroid over time if possible.
68
What might be combined with a **low-dose inhaled corticosteroid** for treatment?
* Long-acting beta-2 agonist * Glucotrine receptor antagonist ## Footnote This combination can help manage symptoms effectively.
69
What is the mainstay treatment for patients with **asthma** experiencing symptoms most days?
Long-acting beta-2 agonist combined with a corticosteroid ## Footnote Additional receptor antagonists may also be tried for better control.
70
What medication might be added for patients with **significantly impaired lung function**?
Tiotropium - LAMA ## Footnote Although typically used for COPD, it may benefit asthma patients with impaired lung function.
71
What is the treatment approach for **uncontrolled asthma symptoms**?
* Oral corticosteroids * Referral to a specialist * IgE antibodies injections every three or four weeks ## Footnote This indicates a more aggressive treatment strategy.
72
True or false: **Asthma** and **COPD** medications are the same.
FALSE ## Footnote Different drug classes are used for asthma and COPD, requiring careful differentiation.
73
What are the drug classes useful for both **asthma** and **COPD**?
* Beta-2 Agonists - albuterol * Corticosteroids - Flovent * Leukotriene receptor antagonists - singulair , montelukast ## Footnote These classes serve different roles in managing both conditions.
74
What is **Trilogy** in the context of COPD treatment?
A combination inhaler containing a steroid, anticholinergic, and beta-2 agonist ## Footnote It allows for aggressive treatment in COPD management.
75
What is the first step in treating a **severe acute attack** in an emergency?
Intubate and provide mechanical ventilation ## Footnote If the patient can breathe, an oxygen mask and nebulized epinephrine are typically used.
76
What medications can help with **pulse ox dropping** into the 70s or 60s?
* Beta-2 agonists through nebulizer * Epinephrine * Systemic steroids (prednisone, methylprednisone) ## Footnote These treatments are crucial for managing severe respiratory distress.
Pharm
flashcards
Decks in class (37)
# Cards
Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2026 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions