asthma sufferers

[tahnz0]

hi all,

just wondering which inhaler is used first.

beclamethasone (QVAR) inhaler or Salbutamol (ventolin) and why?

tahnz0

[cardiacRN2006, ADN, RN]

When someone is experiencing an asthma attack, what do you think is more important to have first? A fast acting inhaler, or a maintenance inhaler?

[tahnz0]

When someone is experiencing an asthma attack, what do you think is more important to have first? A fast acting inhaler, or a maintenance inhaler?

so if one was having an attack, ventolin would be adminstered to relief bronchospasm, as it is a B2 adrenergic receptor agaonist.

and then beclomathosane woould be administered as a maintence therapy.

does anyone have any good resourses they can point me in the right direction?

also if ones condition improves. would the pt still take ventolin first?

[cardiacRN2006, ADN, RN]

For me, I never took Pulmicort for asthma attacks. I just took a hit off of that inhaler once a night, every night.

The Ventolin is for only attacks.

Check your drug book.

[Nightcrawler, BSN, RN]

Some physicians will prescribe that both will be used on a daily basis. In this case, what the physician intends is that the fast acting inhaler be used first so that the airways are fully open before taking the maintenance med.

[tahnz0]

Some physicians will prescribe that both will be used on a daily basis. In this case, what the physician intends is that the fast acting inhaler be used first so that the airways are fully open before taking the maintenance med.

so would you take salbutamol to facilitate the inhalation of beclamathesone or to remove obstructing sputum?

[ready4crna?]

Albuterol does not remove obstructing sputum, it dilates the larger airways. Theoretically, it should allow for better penetration of the inhaled steroid into the smaller airways. But from what I've read, there is no definitive lit. to support this practice. (Not saying it isn't out there, just haven't read any.)