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Procedures and Pharmacology
Pharmacology Table 8-1 provides examples of common respiratory system medications used to treat coughing, congestion, nasal allergy symptoms, and pathologies such as influenza, asthma, and COPD.
TABLE 8-1 EXAMPLES OF RESPIRATORY SYSTEM MEDICATIONS Therapeutic/ Pharmacological Classification Generic Name Trade Name
Common Use/Action
Anti-infectives Macrolides
azithromycin
Zithromax
Prevent bacterial growth
Fluoroquinolones ciprofloxacin
Cipro
Kill bacteria
Tetracyclines
tetracycline
generic
Inhibit bacterial growth
Glycopeptides
vancomycin
Vancocin
Kill bacteria
Other Medications Antihistamines
cetirizine
Zyrtec
Relieve allergy symptoms
diphenhydramine Benadryl fexofenadine Allegra loratadine Claritin
Antitussives
dextromethorphan PediaCare, Robitussin Cough, Sucrets, Triaminic, Vicks
Suppress cough
Bronchodilators
montelukast
Singulair
Prevents asthma attacks
formoterol
Perforomist
Relax smooth muscle of the bronchi
ipratropium Atrovent tiotropium Spiriva
Decongestants
pseudoephedrine Sudafed
Reduce swelling and drainage in the nasal passage Relieve congestion by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways Dilate, or open up, bronchi for long-term control of asthma symptoms
Expectorants
guaifenesin
Guiatuss, Mucinex, Robitussin
Combination bronchodilator and steroid
budesonide (steroid) and formoterol fluticasone (steroid) and salmeterol
Symbicort
Advair
formoterol
Foradil, Perforomist
Continued
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