Oral antihistamines and what they relieve

1. First gen - diphenhydramine (Benadryl) zzZZZ
2. Second gen - cetirizine (Zyrtec)
3. Third gen - fexofenadine (Allegra)

These relieve sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal itching

drugs for sympathomimetics (decongestants)

• pseudoephedrine (oral)
• pehnylephrine (oral, drops, spray)
• oxymetazoline (spray)

how does sympathomimetics (decongestants) work?

• Reduce nasal congestion by activating alpha1-adrenergic receptors on nasal blood vessels = vasoconstriction = decreased swelling & drainage

side effects of sympathomimetics (decongestants)

• rebound congestion (use topical agent for 3-5 days)
• CNS stimulator
• dangerous for pts w CV events
• ABUSE - kept locked behind the counter

Opioid antitussives (anti cough)

codeine, hydrocodone

Nonopioid antitussives (anti cough)

dextromethorphan, benzonatate zzzZZZZZ

Drugs for congestion include

1. Exporants
2. Mucolytics

prototype drug for exporants

guaifenesine

what does guaifenesine do?

makes ur cough more productive by stimulating flow of repiratory tract secretions

prototype drug for mucolytics

acetylcysteine

what does acetylcysteine do?

makes mucus more watery for a more productive cough

other drugs that can treat respiratory conditions include

Abx, antiviral drugs, antifungals, diuretics, and O2