Pulmonary/Respiratory Medications – Nursing Student Study Guide
1. Beta2 Adrenergic Agonists
Example: Albuterol (Proventil)
Used for:
- Asthma and COPD
- Emergency rescue inhaler for asthma attacks
How it works:
- Opens airways by stimulating beta2 receptors (bronchodilation)
Common Side Effects:
- Tachycardia
- Palpitations
- Nervousness
- Tremors
Nursing Tips:
- Use before other inhalers to improve absorption
- Educate patient this is for acute attacks, not daily use
2. Inhaled Anticholinergics
Example: Ipratropium (Atrovent)
Used for:
- Daily maintenance in COPD
- Reduces mucus production
Not for emergency use!
Common Side Effects:
- Dry mouth
- Urinary retention - Increased intraocular pressure (avoid in glaucoma)
Anticholinergic Effects:
- Dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention
- Dilated pupils, dry eyes, blurred vision
- Drowsiness, dizziness, heat intolerance
Nursing Tips:
- Rinse mouth after use
- Encourage fluids and monitor urinary output
3. Glucocorticoids (Steroids)
Example: Prednisone (Deltasone)
Used for:
- Reducing airway inflammation in asthma and COPD
Routes: Oral, IV, inhaled, or nasal
Common Side Effects:
- Adrenal suppression (taper slowly)
- Hyperglycemia
- Increased risk of infection
- Weight gain (with long-term use)
Nursing Tips:
- Never stop abruptly – taper dose
- Monitor glucose and signs of infection
- Rinse mouth after inhaled use
4. Expectorants
Example: Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
Used for: - Loosening mucus to make coughing more productive
Nursing Tips:
- Take with 8 oz of water
- Increase daily fluid intake
- Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets
Summary Table for Review
Drug Class
Example
Used For
Key Side Effects
Important Notes
Beta2 Adrenergic
Agonists
Albuterol
Asthma attacks, COPD Tachycardia, tremors,
flare-ups
palpitations
Inhaled
Anticholinergics
Ipratropium Maintenance for COPD
Glucocorticoids
Prednisone
Asthma/COPD
inflammation
High glucose, infection risk, Taper off slowly, monitor
adrenal suppression
glucose & signs of infection
Expectorants
Guaifenesin
Loosens mucus for
easier coughing
Minor GI upset
Rescue inhaler – use during
acute symptoms
Dry mouth, glaucoma risk, Not for emergency use; avoid
urinary retention
in glaucoma
Take with fluids; do not crush
tablets