Tag: Airway obstruction

Croup is a common childhood respiratory illness, affecting about 3% of children in the United States annually [1.7.1, 1.7.5]. For moderate to severe cases, a key question is: what is the function of epinephrine in a nebulizer to provide rapid relief?

While most people associate adrenaline with the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis via autoinjector, nebulized adrenaline serves a crucial, distinct role in managing severe upper airway obstruction. This specialized administration method allows the medication to directly target the respiratory tract, providing rapid relief for conditions like croup. However, understanding the specific situations where nebulized adrenaline is appropriate, and its pharmacological effects, is key for both healthcare providers and patients.

In the United States, nearly 28 million people have asthma, a chronic condition that often requires intervention to ease breathing [1.7.4]. So, what medication opens up the airways? The primary class of drugs designed for this is called bronchodilators.

Aminophylline is a bronchodilator medication used to treat symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. What is the drug aminophylline used for? It works by relaxing the muscles in the bronchial tubes, increasing airflow to the lungs.

Did you know that over one million people in Japan are estimated to have asthma? For these patients and others with obstructive airway diseases, Meptin, which contains the active ingredient procaterol, is used to relieve symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing. This medication helps to open the airways and make breathing easier.