Ways To Treat Bronchitis

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators are inhaled or oral medicines that can help remove mucus from the lungs, open the airways, and enable patients to breathe more easily. These medications may be especially useful in the treatment of chronic bronchitis. A long-acting bronchodilator called olodaterol was introduced in August 2014. This inhaled medication is approved for the treatment of chronic bronchitis, and patients take it once per day. Potential side effects of olodaterol include skin rashes, urinary tract infections, dizziness, diarrhea, and back pain. Other long-acting bronchodilators that may be prescribed for chronic bronchitis include salmeterol, formoterol, and indacaterol. Depending on the patient's needs and overall condition, short-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol, levalbuterol, and metaproterenol, may sometimes be used. Anticholinergics such as tiotropium, ipratropium, and aclidinium might be used in some cases as well. During treatment with bronchodilators, patients should be aware of the potential for side effects such as nervousness, upset stomach, sleeping difficulties, and an increased heart rate. Any persistent or concerning side effects should be reported to the prescribing physician as soon as possible.

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