Which medication is a Beta-2 agonist commonly used to treat COPD?

Prepare for the NREMT AEMT Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam now!

Multiple Choice

Which medication is a Beta-2 agonist commonly used to treat COPD?

Explanation:
Beta-2 agonists relax the smooth muscle of the airways by stimulating beta-2 receptors, increasing cAMP, which leads to bronchodilation. In COPD, this helps open the airways and improve airflow during bronchospasm. Albuterol is a selective Beta-2 agonist commonly used for quick relief of COPD symptoms; it’s usually given by inhalation for rapid onset with fewer systemic effects. Other options listed don’t provide this targeted Beta-2 bronchodilation: epinephrine is a non-selective adrenergic agonist with broader effects, atropine is an antimuscarinic, and lidocaine is a local anesthetic/antiarrhythmic.

Beta-2 agonists relax the smooth muscle of the airways by stimulating beta-2 receptors, increasing cAMP, which leads to bronchodilation. In COPD, this helps open the airways and improve airflow during bronchospasm. Albuterol is a selective Beta-2 agonist commonly used for quick relief of COPD symptoms; it’s usually given by inhalation for rapid onset with fewer systemic effects. Other options listed don’t provide this targeted Beta-2 bronchodilation: epinephrine is a non-selective adrenergic agonist with broader effects, atropine is an antimuscarinic, and lidocaine is a local anesthetic/antiarrhythmic.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy