AMINOPHYLLINE

Drug Group

• Xanthine : wide range of activity including CNS & cardiac stimulant and in relaxation of smooth muscle

• Action may be related to phosphodiesterase inhibition

Action

• Bronchiolar smooth muscle relaxation

• May require blood level monitoring

Adverse reaction

• Arrhythmias, tachycardias

Presentation

• Aerosol, oral, suppository, IV

SALBUTAMOL “Ventolin”; FENOTEROL “Berotec”

Drug Group

• Beta-2 adrenergic agonist

Action

• Bronchiolar smooth muscle relaxation

• Berotec has longer half life

Adverse reaction

• Arrhythmias, tachycardias, anxiety

Presentation

• Ventolin: Aerosol, oral, IV

• Berotec: Aerosol

IPRATROPIUM “Atrovent”

Drug Group

• Anticholinergic

Action

• Anticholinergic bronchodilator that acts by attenuating the parasympathetic (vagal) effects of irritants on bronchiole smooth muscle

Adverse reaction

• Anticholinergic, eg dry mouth

Presentation

• Aerosol