What is COPD?

COPD stands for "chronic obstructive pulmonary disease". It is a disease in which the flow of air to the lungs is partially blocked due to chronic bronchitis or emphysema. COPD is almost always caused by exposure to cigarette smoke. Less often, exposure to air pollution or hazardous airborne occupational substances, such as coal dust, causes the disease. COPD patients experience shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. These symptoms are a result of airway constriction in the lungs. This occurs when the muscles in the walls of the airway contract. Medication that can prevent or stop the muscle contraction will eliminate the symptoms of COPD.

Commonly Prescribed Respiratory Medications and Their Effects

Albuterol Sulfate is a chemical that causes the muscles around the airways to relax.

When this medication makes contact with the lung tissue, the muscles that are contracted relax and the airways open. This makes it easier for the patient to breathe.

Ipratropium Bromide is a chemical that prevents the muscle around the airways from contracting. When the patient takes this medication the muscles do not contract therefore, the airways remain open and allow the patient an easier time to breathe.

There is evidence that when Albuterol and Ipratropium are used together, the cumulative effect on increasing airflow is greater than using either medication alone. Also, Ipratropium can prolong the effect of Albuterol.

Nebulizer Treatments

Inhaled medication via a nebulizer tends to be more effective and have fewer side effects than the oral version of the drugs. During the treatment, the medication changes from a liquid form to a mist. As the patient inhales, the medication is absorbed directly by the lung tissue. Inhaled medications begin to take effect in 3 to 6 minutes and generally last 4 to 6 hours (length of effectiveness varies from patient to patient). After about six hours the symptoms of the disease will return.

In order for patients to realize the true benefits of their nebulizer medication treatments, they must take their medication on a daily basis as prescribed.