asthma > the-treatment-of-acute-asthma-attacks

in asthma is obviously to widen the airways.

Beta2-agonists can also be taken orally, but because the dosages have to be higher than inhaled medication, the side effects may be more pronounced.

Possible side effects

Palpitations, tremors and nervousness. People often believe that these agents will damage the heart but, when appropriately used, they help alleviate the strain on the heart which is experienced when blood is pumped through a “tight chest”. Patients with underlying heart disorders should, however, only use beta2-agonists under the direction of a medical doctor as certain cardiac disorders may be affected by their use.
Coughing or other bronchial irritation; dizziness or lightheadedness; dryness or irritation of the mouth or throat.

Theophyllines also known as Methylxanthines

There are two groups of theophyllines which are available in tablet or injection form. These medicines relieve cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. They work by opening up the bronchial tubes (air passages of the lungs) and increasing the flow of air through them. They are used in extreme cases.

There are two types to choose from:

Short-acting theophyllines which work for four to six hours.
Long-acting theophyllines which work for about 12 hours.

Long-acting theophyllines are administered in small doses and are usually used once or twice a day, and as an add-on therapy to anti-inflammatory medications. Under controlled medical circumstances they may be used intravenously to treat acute severe attacks. They are generally used, however, to provide long-term bronchodilation. Your blood levels will be monitored to ensure your dosage isn’t too high. As with all medication, results should be carefully monitored and treatment discontinued if the medication isn’t effective.

Possible side effects

Over the past few years these medications have been prescribed less frequently because of the side effects they cause. Lower doses of theophyllins are also more frequently prescribed as this seems to offer the same benefits as the previously higher doses, but with fewer side effects. Overdosing can cause heart rhythm disturbance and seizures which may be fatal.
Other side effects include nausea (a frequent and early symptom of toxicity), stomach pain, anxiety, headaches, palpitations, wakefulness and enuresis (bedwetting).

(published with permission in writing from:http://www.health24.com)