Corticosteroids, Leukotriene Antagonists & Antitussives - Pharmacology - Respiratory |@LevelUpRN

Summary

In this informative video, key respiratory medications are discussed, focusing on corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and antitussives. Corticosteroids, like beclomethasone and fluticasone, are highlighted for their anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in asthma and rhinitis. The video emphasizes the importance of rinsing the mouth after using these medications to prevent fungal infections. Leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast, reduce airway inflammation, while antitussives like benzonatate and codeine are reviewed for their cough-suppressing properties. The speaker concludes by promising to cover additional respiratory medications in the next video.

Takeaways

• 🌬️ Corticosteroids are crucial for managing asthma and rhinitis, focusing on locally acting forms like inhalers and intranasal medications.
• 💊 Common corticosteroids include beclomethasone, mometasone, budesonide, and fluticasone, all of which reduce local inflammation.
• 🚫 Potential side effects of corticosteroids include headaches, sore throat, and a risk of fungal infections; rinsing the mouth after use is important.
• ⏰ When using a bronchodilator with corticosteroids, take the bronchodilator first, wait five minutes, then use the corticosteroid.
• 🛡️ Leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast and zafirlukast, help treat asthma and prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
• ⚙️ These medications work by blocking leukotrienes, which are inflammatory chemicals released in response to allergens.
• 🧠 Side effects of leukotriene receptor antagonists may include headaches and increased liver enzymes, especially with zafirlukast.
• 🌙 Montelukast should be taken in the evening or two hours before exercise, while zafirlukast should be taken on an empty stomach.
• 🤧 Antitussive medications include benzonatate, codeine, and dextromethorphan, all aimed at treating coughs through different mechanisms.
• ⚠️ Side effects vary: benzonatate may cause sedation and GI upset; codeine can lead to serious issues like respiratory depression; and dextromethorphan typically has minor effects.

Q & A

What are the main types of corticosteroids discussed in the video?

The main types of corticosteroids discussed are locally-acting steroids, which include inhalers and intranasal corticosteroids.

What are some examples of locally-acting corticosteroids mentioned?

Examples include beclomethasone, mometasone, budesonide, and fluticasone.

What conditions are corticosteroids used to treat?

Corticosteroids are used to treat asthma and rhinitis (runny nose).

How do corticosteroids work in the body?

They work by decreasing local inflammation.

What important teaching should be given to patients using inhaled corticosteroids?

Patients should rinse their mouth after administration to prevent fungal infections like candidiasis.

What should patients do if they are using both a bronchodilator and a corticosteroid?

Patients should administer the bronchodilator first, wait five minutes, and then administer the corticosteroid.

What are leukotriene receptor antagonists and their purpose?

Leukotriene receptor antagonists, like montelukast and zafirlukast, are used to decrease the effects of leukotrienes, which helps reduce airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

What is the recommended time for taking montelukast?

Montelukast should be taken in the evening or 2 hours before exercise.

What are some common side effects of antitussive medications?

Common side effects include sedation, constipation, and gastrointestinal upset.

How does dextromethorphan work as an antitussive?

Dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex in the medulla.