Types of inhalers
The first inhaler was invented in 1874. Since then, these means used for inhalation in bronchial asthma have changed greatly. There are several types of inhalers.
- Powder metered-dose inhalers are devices that deliver a dose of dry powder to the respiratory tract. The downside can be a high price.
- Liquid metered-dose inhalers are available inform of aerosols. They are easy to handle and affordable. To get the substance into the respiratory tract, while injecting the aerosol, you must simultaneously inhale.
- Spacers are plastic ormetal valves that are placed on the inhaler. This chamber releases the medicine only when you inhale. Such special devices facilitate the inhalation procedure and can be used for children. Among the disadvantages, one can highlight the large size of the spacer.
- Nebulizers are devices that spraymedicine into small fractions. Which allows it to be delivered to the most remote parts of the respiratory tract. According to the operating principle, these devices are divided into ultrasonic and compressor. The nebulizer is much larger in size than a pocket inhaler, so it is most often used at home.
Types of drugs for the treatment of bronchial asthma
In pharmacies you can find different commercialnames of inhalers. When choosing them, pay attention to the active substance that affects the bronchi. In general, drugs for bronchial asthma are divided into 2 types: bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs. Bronchodilators have the following subtypes:
- Sympathomimetics stimulate bronchial receptors, expanding their lumens. For example, pirburetol, salbutamol, levalbuterol, terbutaline and others.
- M-cholinoreceptor blockers relax the bronchi. The active substance is often atrovent.
- Methylxanthines relax the smooth muscles of the bronchi, blocking some enzymes in the body. There are such drugs as aminophylline and theophylline.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are based onglucocorticoids. These hormonal agents enhance the action of the hormone adrenaline and relieve swelling of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. For example, flixotide, becotide, benacort, ingacort. Patients with severe bronchial asthma are prescribed glucocorticoid hormonal tablets, in other cases patients use a pocket inhaler. When asthma is accompanied by other bacterial infections, antibiotics are prescribed for their treatment.
