Beta-2 sympathomimetics | These drugs help with allergies

Beta-2 sympathomimetics

Our vegetative nervous system, i.e. the nervous system that primarily influences internal body functions, is divided into two subclasses. One is the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays an important role in digestion and shuts down many other bodily functions such as the cardiovascular system. The sympathetic nervous system, on the other hand, has a rather activating effect, stimulating breathing and circulation.

Sympathomimetics are drugs that support the sympathetic nervous system. They imitate messenger substances that activate the sympathetic nervous system. Beta-2 sympathomimetics act on the beta-2 receptors, which are mainly located in the blood vessels and bronchi (our smallest airways), where they cause structures to expand.

In the case of an allergic reaction, the bronchodilator effect is mainly used. Beta-2 sympathomimetics can be divided into short- and long-acting drugs. Depending on the severity of the allergy, a permanent therapy with a combination of these beta-2-sympathomimetics can be performed.

The short-acting sympathomimetic drugs include salbutamol, terbutaline, fenoterol and isoprenaline. Long-acting beta-2 sympathomimetics are formoterol and salmeterol. Sympathomimetic drugs are usually used in the form of sprays, so that they reach the lungs fastest and only have a local effect. Side effects may include tremors and agitation as well as a too fast heartbeat and cardiac arrhythmia. This topic could also be of interest to them: Drugs for asthma

Anticholinergics

Anticholinergics have a similar spectrum of action to sympathomimetics, but they act at exactly the opposite point. The sympathetic nervous system (activating) and the parasympathetic nervous system (digestion and rest) are antagonists in our body, which primarily control our internal bodily functions. While sympathomimetics contribute to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, anticholinergics shut down the parasympathetic nervous system.

The consequence is a similar effect. Anticholinergics work by blocking the receptors of the messenger substances in the parasympathetic nervous system so that no signals can be sent through the affected nerves. As a result, for example, the tension in the small muscles located in the walls of blood vessels and around our airways is reduced.

This allows the bronchi, our smallest airways, in particular, to dilate again. The heart rate is also increased. Anticholinergics play a role especially in COPD, where they are supposed to dilate the bronchial tubes in the long term.

They have the same function in the treatment of allergic narrowing of the bronchial tubes. Typical representatives of anticholinergics are the poison of belladonna (atropine) and butylscopolamine. Ipratropium bromide and Aclidinium are also anticholinergically effective drugs. Since the parasympathetic nervous system also plays a role in saliva production, undesirable side effects such as dry mouth can occur.