Bronchodilators: What is it and how do they work?

Last Updated on Wed, 15 February 2023 | Drug References

Bronchodilators, medications that relax the muscles of the airways and allow them to expand and open up, are called bronchodilators. These medications can be used to treat symptoms such as asthma and COPD. Bronchodilators can also be delivered to the lungs by inhalers, nasal sprays and oral medications. There are both short-acting as well long-acting bronchodilators that can be used to provide immediate relief. They also have the ability to be administered on a daily basis to give sustained relief.

Which Health Conditions can be treated with bronchodilators

The most common use of bronchodilators is to treat chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and asthma. Asthma refers to a condition where the airways narrow and become inflamed making it hard for you to breathe. COPD can be described as an umbrella term that covers many lung conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. People can breathe easier when they have bronchodilators. They open their airways to reduce inflammation and decrease inflammation.

Bronchodilators: Examples

Today, there are many types of bronchodilators on the marketplace. Some examples include:

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)
Salmeterol (Serevent)
Formoterol (Foradil).
Ipratropium , (Atrovent).
Tiotropium (Spiriva)

Views of Experts and Pros on Bronchodilators

Experts and medical professionals are generally open to the use of bronchodilators. A study in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that bronchodilators can improve airflow and reduce symptoms of COPD and asthma. The World Health Organization also recommends that bronchodilators be administered orally and inhaled to manage COPD and asthma.

Side effects of bronchodilators

Although bronchodilators can be tolerated well and are safe, there may be side effects. Side effects that are common include nausea, headaches, dizziness and irritation of the throat. Side effects that can be more serious include difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat and chest pain. Patients who use bronchodilators for long periods may experience elevated blood pressure and decreased potassium levels.

Other Natural Remedies to Enhance Bronchodilator Actions

There are natural treatments that may be able to help with symptoms such as asthma and COPD. The bronchodilator properties of herbs such as peppermint and eucalyptus have been proven . They can also be consumed in capsules or tea form. You can also try yoga, steam inhalation and acupuncture to improve your breathing.

Bronchodilators, which are medication that relax the muscles of the airways and allow them to expand, can be summarized as follows: These medications can be used to treat symptoms such as asthma and COPD. Experts and medical professionals are generally comfortable with the use of several types of bronchodilators on the marketplace. Some side effects of bronchodilators include headaches, dizziness and nausea. There are natural ways to alleviate symptoms such as COPD and asthma. This includes herbs, steam inhalation and yoga.