Bronchodilator

Bronchodilator
SpecialtyPulmonology

A bronchodilator or broncholytic[1] (although the latter occasionally includes secretory inhibition as well) is a substance that dilates the bronchi and bronchioles, decreasing resistance in the respiratory airway and increasing airflow to the lungs. Bronchodilators may be originating naturally within the body, or they may be medications administered for the treatment of breathing difficulties, usually in the form of inhalers. They are most useful in obstructive lung diseases, of which asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are the most common conditions. Although this remains somewhat controversial, they might be useful in bronchiolitis and bronchiectasis. They are often prescribed but of unproven significance in restrictive lung diseases.[2]

Bronchodilators are either short-acting or long-acting. Short-acting medications provide quick or "rescue" relief from acute bronchoconstriction. Long-acting bronchodilators help to control and prevent symptoms. The three types of prescription bronchodilating drugs are beta-2 adrenergic agonists (short- and long-acting), anticholinergics (short- and long-acting), and theophylline (long-acting).

  1. ^ Venes, Donald (2017-01-25). Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. F.A. Davis. ISBN 9780803659407.
  2. ^ Sathe NA, Krishnaswami S, Andrews J, Ficzere C, McPheeters ML (July 2015). "Pharmacologic Agents That Promote Airway Clearance in Hospitalized Subjects: A Systematic Review" (PDF). Respiratory Care. 60 (7): 1061–70. doi:10.4187/respcare.04086. PMID 25944943. S2CID 7017557.