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FDA statement
“Although the bronchodilators are generally safe for
OTC use at recommended dosage and are effective in
relieving the shortness of breath caused by
bronchospasm. It is emphasized that these
preparations should not be used unless a diagnosis of
asthma has been made by a physician and a dosage
schedule of the OTC medications has been
established.
Patients with asthma may also require prescription
drugs which may have serious side effects and there
is, then, an added need for continued medical
supervision”
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OTC for asthma
Ephedrine Epinephrine
• Oral • Via inhalation (MDI)
• Controversal! Still on US
• Non selective B agonist,
market short duration
• Alpha & B agonist
• Only mild forms of asthma • FDA label Warning if no
• Adv effect (CNS stimulation, effect produced within
20min;
tremors, tachycardia, urinary
retention) • possible side effects:
• Not with MAO inhibitors, tremors, nervousness..
clonidine (severe hypertension)
• Tolerance, overdose
• Pregnancy, elderly and children
>12!
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