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What Are Bronchodilators?

When bronchi are constricted mucus levels increase. Bronchodilators are medications that treat constricted bronchi.

Transcript: What Are Bronchodilators?

Constricted Bronchi

During normal respiration, air travels through the nose, down the trachea, and into smaller and smaller airways called bronchi. In some cases the smooth muscle that wraps around the bronchi may constrict and mucus levels can increase. This makes breathing difficult.

What are Bronchodilators?

Generally this condition is treated with medications called bronchodilators.

Types of Bronchodilators

The most common types of bronchodilators are anticholinergics and beta-2 agonists. These drugs are inhaled, travel down the airway and bind to bronchial smooth muscle cells. This results in muscle relaxation and decreased levels of mucus, which allows for easier breathing.

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