CHAPTER 7RESPIRATORY

SYSTEMTerry Prince

Medical TerminologyPresentation 7

3 DRUG PRESCRIPTIONS

• Mucolytics• Bronchodilators• Corticosteroids

Mucolytic agent are used to dissolve or breakdown mucus in the respiratory tract. They make the mucus less viscous so it can be coughed up with more ease. They are used to treat respiratory conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Cystic Fibrosis.

SIDE EFFECTSSome side effect from using Mucolytics are:• Upset stomach• Irritation in the

respiratory tract• Difficulty breathing• Drowsiness• Nausea• Fever

Bronchodilators are agents that widen the air passages by relaxing the bronchial smooth muscle. They are either short-acting or long acting beta2-agonists, anticholinergic agents or theophylline. They are used to control symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.

BRONCHODILATORS MAY TREAT

• Asthma• Chronic obstructive pulmonary

disease(COPD)• Cystic Fibrosis• Chronic Bronchitis• Emphysema

Short acting bronchodilators are used when needed for quick relief of asthma symptoms and long acting bronchodilators are used regularly to control symptoms of asthma.

SIDE EFFECTS1. The most common side

effects of bronchodilators is the sensation of having a dry mouth.

2. Constipation3. Cough4. Headaches5. Trembling6. Nervous Tension

Noticeable Heartbeat7. Muscle cramps

CORTICOSTEROIDSCorticosteroids are steroid hormones that are produced by the body or man-made. They fall in three categories, systemic, oral and injectable

SYSTEMIC CORTICOSTEROIDS

Systemic corticosteroids are used for relief during an asthma attack. They reduce inflammation in the airways. They also decrease the mucus made by the bronchial tubes, making it easier to breathe.

ORAL CORTICOSTEROIDS

Oral corticosteroids are used to provide relief to inflamed areas of the body. They lessen swelling, redness, itching and allergic reactions.

INJECTABLE CORTICOSTEROIDS

Corticosteroids Injections can treat a variety of skeletal, muscular and spinal condition such as• Rheumatoid arthritis• Ulcerative Colitis• Chrons Diease• Asthma• Bronchitis• Skin rashes• Allergic or Inflammatory

conditions