Reproterol is an active substance that belongs to the group of beta-2-sympathomimetics. Reproterol can be used as a metered-dose inhaler or as an injection solution and is primarily used to dilate the bronchial tubes and, in this context, often as an asthma therapy.
What is reproterol?
The drug Reproterol is most commonly used for the therapy of bronchial asthma. Reproterol is one of the active substances used in various respiratory diseases. In the context, it belongs to the group of beta-2-sympathomimetics. By definition, reproterol is used primarily for respiratory diseases characterized by bronchial constriction. These diseases include, above all, severe bronchial asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD for short. If the active ingredient is to be used over a longer period of time, experts advise that it should always be taken in combination with an anti-inflammatory therapy. This can be done, for example, with an active substance from the glucocorticoid range. The essential property of reproterol is to dilate the bronchi very quickly and also to facilitate expectoration when mucus is present.
Pharmacologic action
The active ingredient Reproterol can enter the bloodstream in the form of an injection on the one hand, but it is also possible to use it in the form of a metered dose inhaler on the other hand. Regarding the effect, it should be noted – regardless of the method of application – that the dosage depends on both the type of disease and its severity. The main effect of reproterol, as a beta 2-sympathomimetic, is based on the fact that the tense muscles of the bronchi are relaxed quite quickly. Specifically, the effect is achieved by inducing muscle relaxation at the sympathetic beta 2-adrenoceptors. This in turn causes the bronchial tubes to dilate and the patient normally no longer experiences shortness of breath. It also has the effect that existing mucus can be coughed up more easily. Reproterol also has a certain preventive effect against asthma and COPD. The half-life of the active ingredient is approximately 1.5 hours.
Medical application and use
The drug reproterol is most commonly used for the treatment of bronchial asthma. It is often combined with cromoglicic acid in this context, allowing both prevention and treatment of certain respiratory diseases. In this case, the application consists, on the one hand, of bronchodilator therapy and, on the other hand, of basic therapy, which is anti-inflammatory. Accordingly, it can be stated that reproterol is used in those respiratory diseases in which bronchial constriction is a symptom. These include not only severe asthma attacks but also, for example, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Consequently, the active ingredient can also be used in the case of existing allergies that have a negative effect on the bronchial tubes. In addition, the drug is effective in respiratory diseases associated with more severe obfuscation. Reproterol is also frequently used in chronic bronchitis.
Risks and side effects
With almost any agent that can be used to treat more severe conditions, side effects may occur during use. This is also true of the active ingredient Reproterol, although it must be said that of course by no means all patients experience side effects. Among those side effects that may occur frequently or occasionally during the use of Reproterol are primarily headaches, temporary palpitations or a temporary restlessness. To the same extent, muscle cramps or tremors may also occur. In addition to these, other side effects may occur, although these are comparatively rare. First and foremost are problems with urination. Furthermore, there are some side effects that are even very rarely observed. These include allergic reactions, such as itching or skin rash, a reduction in blood platelets and inflammation in the area of the kidneys. Skin bleeding or facial swelling may also occur.In addition, there may be an increase in blood glucose levels or decreased potassium levels, although there is no data to date on the frequency of these side effects of reproterol.
