pulmonary disorders
Drug Treatment of Asthma
Anticholinergics (antimuscarinics)
Anticholinergics relax bronchial smooth muscle through competitive inhibition of muscarinic (M3) cholinergic receptors.Ipratropiummay have an additive effect when combined with short-acting beta-2 agonists. Adverse effects include pupillary dilation, blurred vision, and dry mouth.Tiotropiumsoft mist inhaler (1.25 mcg/puff) is a 24-hour inhaled anticholinergic that can be used for patients with asthma. In patients with asthma, clinical trials oftiotropiumadded to either inhaled corticosteroids or to a combination of an inhaled long-acting beta-2 agonist plus a corticosteroid have shown improved pulmonary function and decreased asthma exacerbations. 