Albuterol and ipratropium bromide: The Treatment You’ve Been Waiting For!!
It was the middle of summer and the heat was unbearable. Everyone in the city was looking for a way to cool down. But for one little girl, all the air conditioners in the world weren’t enough. Her asthma was acting up and she needed her albuterol inhaler.
She ran into the pharmacy, out of breath, and begged the pharmacist for help. “Please, I need my albuterol inhaler! My asthma is acting up!” The pharmacist nodded and went to get it for her.
As she walked out of the store, she felt relief wash over her body. She took a deep breath and smiled. Even though the heat was still oppressive, at least she could breathe easily now.
What is a bronchodilator and how does it work
Bronchodilators are drugs that can help those that suffer from bronchospasm, narrowing of the airways that restrict the flow of air throughout the lung fields, and any other reactive airway diseases breathe easier. Some of the most common bronchodilators are albuterol and ipratropium bromide, which can be used together or separately to treat a wide variety of respiratory conditions. Ipratropium is an anticholinergic medication and Albuterol is a short-acting beta -2- adrenergic agonist medication.
Both medications work in different ways in the body but both have the same desired effect. Albuterol stimulates specific nerve receptors in the body called beta -2- adrenergic receptors to promote bronchodilation whereas ipratropium, an anticholinergic medication, blocks the binding of acetylcholine resulting in dilation or opening of the airways.
When used together, albuterol and ipratropium can provide relief from asthma symptoms for up to 12 hours. They are also effective at treating chronic bronchitis and other respiratory conditions that may be beneficial to their ability to breathe better.
Albuterol and ipratropium bromide are medications available via inhaler or nebulizer. Inhalers are the more common form found in use as it’s easy to transport with you around, as well as easy to administer the medication through some.
How are some bronchodilators given??
Inhalers are the most common form of bronchodilators and they are easy to administer. To use an inhaler, you first need to shake it well. Then hold the inhaler upright with your thumb on the bottom and breathe out fully. Put the mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips tightly around it. Inhale deeply and slowly through your nose. Hold your breath for 10 seconds (or as long as you can). Then release your finger from the top of the inhaler, remove the inhaler from your mouth, and breathe out slowly.
A nebulizer is a device used to deliver medication in the form of a mist or aerosol. Nebulizers are often used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis. Nebulizers are great in situations where a person is unable to take any breath holds, or slowly breathe for use of an inhaler. To use a nebulizer, you will need to assemble the device according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You will also need to prepare and administer the medication according to your doctor’s instructions. Once the medication is in the nebulizer cup the mist will enter your lungs and help to open up the airways.
Side effects
Bronchodilators are typically well tolerated with few side effects. The most common side effects include slight headaches, dizziness, and tremors. Bronchodilators are rapidly absorbed and have a short half-life, so they are typically only taken as needed for asthma symptom relief. However, some bronchodilators (such as albuterol) can be used on a regular basis for the prevention of asthma attacks. If you are prescribed a bronchodilator, be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and take the medication as directed. Bronchodilators can help you breathe easier and improve your quality of life.
When to use a bronchodilator
There are a few times when it might be appropriate to use a bronchodilator. If you are experiencing shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness, a bronchodilator might help you breathe easier. Bronchodilators can also be used to prevent respiratory problems before they start. If you are going to be exposed to a dusty or smoky environment, or if you are going to be exercising strenuously, taking a bronchodilator beforehand can help reduce the risk of respiratory problems.
Peak flow meter
A peak flow meter is a device used to measure the maximum speed of air that can be expelled from the lungs also known as FEV1. This information can be used to determine how well the lungs are working and to help track the progress of respiratory conditions such as asthma. The peak flow meter is a simple, inexpensive device that measures how fast can leave your lungs, which could be impacted if any bronchoconstriction presented in any way. Once you record your baseline flow you can use that number to now gauge how difficult your breathing is. There is a yellow and red line marked, Yellow for taking your rescue medication and Red to Call 911 and seek help immediately.
Other treatments that can be used for acute asthma exacerbation {If Curious}
Oral & Systemic corticosteroids
Leukotriene modifiers
Mast cell stabilizers
Immunotherapy
Non-invasive ventilation
Bronchodilators are a lifesaver for many people. They help to open the airways and make it easier to breathe. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of bronchospasm, wheezing, or chest tightness, please talk to your doctor about using a bronchodilator. There are a few different types of medications available, so finding one that works well for you and ways to monitor yourself such as peak flow meters are important. Stay tuned for more posts about respiratory topics as we Master Respiratory – subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss them! Thanks for reading!
