Prehospital pharmacological interventions in acute asthma: A rationale for use

Pete Gregory
Monday, December 1, 2008

Ambulance service practitioners have an array of medicines available to alleviate the symptoms of an acute asthma attack; these include sympathomimetics (β-adrenoreceptor agonists and β-adrenoreceptor agonists), antimuscarinic agents (sometimes referred to as anticholinergic agents) and corticosteroids. In order to provide the best level of care to a patient suffering from an acute asthma attack it is essential that the attending practitioner understands the mechanism of action of the medicines he/she will administer and the adverse effects of those medicines. This article provides an overview of the mode of action of these medicines, discusses why the adverse effects occur, and questions JRCALC guidelines.

Subscribe to get full access to the Journal of Paramedic Practice

Thank you for vising the Journal of Paramedic Practice and reading our archive of expert clinical content. If you would like to read more from the only journal dedicated to those working in emergency care, you can start your subscription today for just £48.

CPD Focus

Reading the Journal of Paramedic Practice counts towards your professional development

Develop your career

We provide professional information dedicated to paramedics covering training, education and jobs

Stay informed

Get the latest clinical information to ensure you are aware of the latest think and best practice in paramedicne

Subscribe now

Already registered? - Sign in here