The Respiratory System plays a simple body function- to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide from our body to the external environment and vice versa. It also facilitates the exchange of these gases at the molecular level, that is, how oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange occurs in the blood. Simple as it may seem, it is actually a very vital function in the survival of living organisms.
However, there are a lot of respiratory diseases and ailments associated with this important body system and this also entails the types of drugs associated with each disease.
Here is a list of the most commonly prescribed drugs as well as their specific indications:
Antihistamines
Antihistamines work by preventing the release of chemical mediators called histamines which contribute to the development of inflammation of the airways, for this matter. Basically, they function to prevent allergic reaction of the respiratory system such as Allergic Rhinitis, Sinusitis and Urticaria. Example of these drugs as Loratadine, Diphenhydramine, and Meclizine.
Pregnancy and lactation is a contraindication for this drug as well as underlying kidney and liver diseases. It also causes drowsiness and fatigue when taken as well as stomach upset and urinary retention.
Antitussives
Antitussives help individuals by suppressing the coughing reflex through working on the medulla oblongata, the area of the brain which controls coughing. Basically, this drug is used to treat coughs but this does not depress the breathing mechanism of the person. Examples of antitussives are Dextromethorpan and Guaifensin.
It should be noted that this drug must not be taken by patients with respiratory secretions as this may accumulate the secretions and lead to further complications. This drug can also cause dizziness, nausea and vomiting as well as stomach upset.
Mucolytics
As the term suggests, these drugs help break down mucus in the respiratory walls in order for them to be fully expectorated. This is given to patients with thick and tenacious secretions which make it difficult for them to cough it out. Acetylcysteine and Dornase Alfa are the most common mucolytics in the market.
Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators work by widening the opening of the mainstem bronchi as well as the bronchioles, a part of the respiratory system which serves as air passages. These drugs relieve bronchial spasms and asthma by allowing more air to enter the system.
Bronchodilators are further classified into specific types, the Xanthines, Sympathomimetics, Inhaled Steroids and Anti-Cholinergics.
Regardless of the types of bronchodilators, they all have the same effect- to dilate the airways for a more effective breathing pattern. The only difference they have is their mechanism of action, such that Xanthines work by relaxing the smooth muscles of the respiratory system, Sympathomimetics work by mimicking the effects of the Sympathetic Nervous System, Inhaled Steroids work by decreasing inflammation of the airways and Anticholinergics work by decreasing the actions of acetylcholine thereby reducing muscle spasms.
The most common side effects of bronchodilators are nervousness and trembling but usually goes away once the body has adjusted to the drug effects. Chestpain, irregular heartbeat as well as blurred vision are serious side effects and one should immediately seek a physician with the presence of these signs and symptoms.
