PTCE: The Basics of Medications - Respiratory Agents

Use the table below to review common USAN stems for respiratory agents.
Tip: Cough medications that contain codeine are often scheduled as C-V and may have refill limitations, dispensing restrictions, and recordkeeping requirements. These laws vary by state.

Table: USAN Stems for Respiratory Agents

Respiratory agents (see table below) are used to treat many conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, colds, and allergies.

Medications associated with asthma are given via inhalation through an inhaler or nebulizer. Medications like albuterol work by causing bronchodilation (used to expand the airway). These inhalers may be used as “rescue inhalers” to treat acute respiratory distress. Other inhalers are used as maintenance medications to prevent breathing difficulties from occurring. Leukotriene inhibitors, like montelukast, stop inflammatory responses by blocking leukotrienes. Corticosteroids inhibit inflammatory mediators and are available in both oral and inhalation dosage forms. Inhaled corticosteroids may cause oral candidiasis (thrush), and patients should be instructed to swish and spit after inhaling the medication. Oral corticosteroids may cause weight gain, an increase in facial hair, or even breast development in men with chronic use.

Cough and cold agents treat a variety of symptoms. Expectorants are used to thin mucus associated with coughs and colds. Decongestants are used to treat congestion. Antitussives are used in cough and cold products to relieve dry coughs. These agents are often used in combination to treat multi-symptom colds.

Table: Respiratory Agents