Bronchodilators Pharmacological treatment of obstructive respiratory diseases

Drª. Cecília Nunes, revisto a

Bronchodilators are the mainstay of therapy in obstructive respiratory diseases (asthma, COPD, emphysema). Its action consists of dilating the airways through muscle relaxation that surrounds the bronchial tree, facilitating breathing.


There are several types of bronchodilators depending on their mode and duration of action:

- B2 adrenergic short-acting (SABA) and long-acting (LABA)

- Short-acting (SAMA) and long-acting (LAMA) anticholinergics


The treatment of COPD with bronchodilators is indicated in symptomatic people, according to the severity groups, considering the assessment of dyspnea (mMRC) and the number of COPD exacerbations in the last year.


There are multiple inhalation devices and a suitable inhalation device should always be selected, considering clinical and pharmacological factors, the age and ability of the person and/or family/caregivers.


A demonstration of correct use of the inhaler must be carried out in the initial evaluation and the inhalation technique must be verified in the follow-up clinical evaluations (up to 2 to 3 times) in order to identify and correct errors.


Bronchodilators
Image 1 - Example of bronchodilators available in the market


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