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Abstract #20603 Published in IGR 10-1
Drug induced asthma
Kostoudi S; Mironidou-Tzouveleki MEpitheorese Klinikes Farmakologias kai Farmakokinetikes 2007; 25: 163-174
Asthma is a pulmonary disease characterized as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. The airways are inflamed and this is associated with hyperresponsiveness to triggers or factors and this leads to airflow limitation because of bronchospasm, mucus plug formation and swelling of the airway wall. Some of the most common asthma triggers are infections, cigarette smoke, several environmental factors (aeroallergens, air pollution, dust, e.t.c.) and exercise. However, bronchospasm and asthma can also be due to medications, something not usually considered as a risk factor for asthma in general practice. In this essay reference will be made to drugs that cause bronchospasm and asthma as a side effect. These drugs are NSAIDs (especially acetylsalicylic acid) and β-blockers, and not so often bronchospasm is a side effect induced by glaucoma drugs, radiocontrast media, several anaesthetic agents as well as illicit drugs. The diagnosis of drug-induced asthma is important, as withdrawing the offending medication can be beneficial in many cases and only in a few ones is another medical support essential. LA: Greek
Dr. M. Mironidou-Tzouveleki, Komninon 4, GR-57010 Filyro, Thessaloniki, Hellas. mmyronid@auth.gr
Classification:
11.3.4 Betablocker (Part of: 11 Medical treatment > 11.3 Adrenergic drugs)
