Asthma Medications

ESAT 4001Pharmacology in Athletic

Training

Asthma

• Review of condition• Use of inhalers and other

medications– Epinephrine (EPIPEN) in acute attacks

Inhalers and Spacers

• MDI• Spacer• Nebulizer• Problems with inhalers

– Hand-breath coordination• Nebulizer

Bronchiodilators(Beta-Adrenergic Agonists)

• Mostly used in inhaler form– Albuterol

• Proventil & ventolin

• Cause smooth-muscle relaxation ~ opening constricted airways

• Effects seen w/in 5-15 min; last 3-6 hr

• Intended for use for asthma

Bronchiodilators(Beta-Adrenergic Agonists)

• Side effects of inhalers– “Racing heart”, other cardiac

irregularities, nervousness– Azmacort and flovent are steroid

preparations ~ may be on banned lists

Anticholinergics

• Cholinergic receptor inhibitor– Leads to bronchodilation– Not as effective as beta adrenergic

drugs

Systemic Corticosteroids

• Inhibit associated inflammatory response

• Used to treat symptoms associated with acute exacerbation

• Used in combination with 2-agonist drugs

• 3-10 day course

Long Term Therapies

• Inhalation Corticosteroids• Mast Cell Stabilizers• Leukotriene Modifiers

– Effective reduction of inflammation• Long acting Beta Agonists

– Bronchodilators– Onset is slower than short acting drugs

• Methylxanthines– Caffeine