Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

In managing COPD, which type of medication should be used in conjunction with anticholinergics?

1. Long-acting beta-agonists

2. Short-acting beta-2 agonists

3. Inhaled corticosteroids

4. Mucolytics

The correct answer is: Short-acting beta-2 agonists

In managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), using short-acting beta-2 agonists in conjunction with anticholinergics is a common and effective approach. Short-acting beta-2 agonists work by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle, leading to bronchodilation. This is crucial for providing rapid relief of symptoms, especially during acute exacerbations. When combined with anticholinergics, which also act as bronchodilators but through a different mechanism, the overall efficacy in improving airflow and reducing respiratory distress is significantly enhanced. This combination allows for both quick relief (due to the rapid onset of short-acting beta-2 agonists) and prolonged effects (from the anticholinergics), helping to manage the symptoms effectively. This synergistic effect can improve patient outcomes, making it a preferred choice in the stepwise management of COPD. In contrast, other options such as long-acting beta-agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, and mucolytics might be used in various treatment strategies for COPD but are not typically considered first-line options for immediate symptom relief in conjunction with anticholinergics. Long-acting beta-agonists provide sustained bronchodilation but are not used for immediate relief