Effects of a Bronchodilator

Bronchodilators are medications that are prescribed to help patients with breathing difficulties. These medications come in short- and long-acting types and in multiple varieties. Though there are some side effects and contraindications, these medications can increase a patient's quality of life. You should discuss your treatment plan and any possible side effects with your doctor or health-care team.

Definition and Uses

• A bronchodilator is a medication that dilates or opens the airways by relaxing the smooth muscle surrounding them when they are inflamed or narrowed. The muscles relaxing and the dilation of the airways makes breathing easier for patients with diseases that can cause constriction, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema, although some can be used preventatively for people with wheezing or difficulty breathing when they exercise. Bronchodilators can be long- or short-acting, and they are usually one of three varieties: beta-2 agonists, anticholinergics and theophylline.

Short- and Long-Acting Bronchodilators

• There are two main kinds of bronchodilator medication, the short-acting and the long-acting. Short-acting bronchodilators are used for quick relief of symptoms and are meant to stop an asthma attack or other difficulty breathing. Long-acting bronchodilator medications do not treat attacks as they happen and should not be relied on for quick symptom relief. However, when taken regularly, these long-acting bronchodilators can help prevent asthma attacks.

Beneficial Effects

• Both beta-2 agonists and anticholinergics come in short- and long-acting types that work in similar ways, while theophylline is a long-acting bronchodilator. Short-acting medications work to relax constricted airways. This allows the patient to breathe more freely. Long-acting medications also relax airways, but can also prevent future attacks, especially when used with anti-inflammatory drugs. Long-acting beta-2 agonists also reduce the amount of mucus in the lungs. Theophylline is believed to relax the muscles in the lungs and reduce inflammation. It is not as widely used today, and patients receiving it must be closely monitored.

Possible Side Effects

• Beta-2 agonists can cause some side effects, including shaking limbs, anxiety, a rapid heart rate or muscle cramps. These side effects generally disappear quickly and may stop entirely once you are accustomed to the medication. Anticholinergics have fewer side effects, which can include dry mouth, dry coughs or blurry vision. Theophylline can cause nausea or loss of appetite, restlessness or nervousness, headache, dizziness or sleeplessness. If side effects persist, contact your doctor.

Negative Effects and Contraindications

• Patients with heart problems who take short-acting beta-2 agonists should report any heart-related side effects to their doctor. Men with prostate problems should avoid anticholinergics because these can cause urinary difficulties. Patients with liver problems may have difficulty clearing theophylline from their systems, so they may need tests to monitor how much medication is in their bodies. If you have had allergic reactions to medications or if you are taking other medications, tell your doctor. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, your doctor may need to re-evaluate your medication's dosage. Some bronchodilators may not be appropriate for use in older adults, children or people with other medical conditions.

Warning

• While the side effects might seem a concern, your doctor has prescribed bronchodilators for you because the benefits outweigh the risks. If you have concerns about side effects or about possible interactions with other medications or health problems, consult your doctor.