Bronchodilators are commonly used to treat patients with asthma and breathing problems. Known for their ability to open the airways and make the act of breathing easier, bronchodilators are prescribed by doctors to control the short-term and long-term effects of asthma. Bronchodilators can be inhaled, taken as an injection or taken by mouth.

Directions

When taken through inhalation, the patient will either use a nebulizer or inhalation aerosol to receive the bronchodilator. A nebulizer changes medication from liquid form to mist form, allowing it to be easily inhaled into the lungs. To use a nebulizer, pour the mediation into the nebulizer cup and position the face mask over your mouth. Take slow, deep breaths and hold each break for two to three seconds before exhaling. Nebulizer treatment takes approximately 10 minutes. The inhalation aerosol is commonly referred to as an inhaler. It consists of a small canister to hold the medicine and an L-shaped plastic holder with a mouthpiece at the bottom. Place the mouthpiece into the mouth and press down on the top of the canister. This causes the medication to aerosolize, sending a small puff of medication into your mouth. Inhale this puff into your lungs and hold your breath for five to 10 seconds. Repeat if necessary. Occasionally, bronchodilators are given in the form of a pill, liquid medication or intravenous drug. For example, Theophylline is a common bronchodilator given in these forms. Theophylline is similar to caffeine in that it stimulates the heart, central nervous system and skeletal muscles. It works to relax the smooth muscles around the airways, opening the airways for easier breathing. Bronchodilators given by mouth or injection are typically used to treat severe asthma.

Side Effects

Bronchodilators are stimulants, so they occasionally cause a variety of side effects. If you are using a bronchodilator, it is important to know which side effects are normal, and which require medical attention. The most common side effects of using bronchodilators include nervousness, a trembling, overexcitement, increased heart rate, upset stomach, difficulty sleeping and muscle aches. Patients using an inhaler often experience dry mouth or a bad taste in the mouth after treatment. It is not unusual for these side effects to occur; you do not need to seek medical attention for these side effects unless they become severe. Occasionally, serious side effects or allergic reactions may occur. Seek medical attention immediately if any of the following side effects occur after using a bronchodilator: sever chest pain, unusual bruising, rash, swelling, blurred vision or numbness in the hands or feet.

Source:

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators and Asthma

Nebulizers: Home and Portable