Ways To Treat Bronchitis

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators are inhaled or oral medicines that can help remove mucus from the lungs, open the airways, and enable patients to breathe more easily. These medications may be especially useful in the treatment of chronic bronchitis. A long-acting bronchodilator called olodaterol was introduced in August 2014. This inhaled medication is approved for the treatment of chronic bronchitis, and patients take it once per day. Potential side effects of olodaterol include skin rashes, urinary tract infections, dizziness, diarrhea, and back pain. Other long-acting bronchodilators that may be prescribed for chronic bronchitis include salmeterol, formoterol, and indacaterol. Depending on the patient's needs and overall condition, short-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol, levalbuterol, and metaproterenol, may sometimes be used. Anticholinergics such as tiotropium, ipratropium, and aclidinium might be used in some cases as well. During treatment with bronchodilators, patients should be aware of the potential for side effects such as nervousness, upset stomach, sleeping difficulties, and an increased heart rate. Any persistent or concerning side effects should be reported to the prescribing physician as soon as possible.

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Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Recent studies indicate that anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen may be particularly effective in the treatment of bronchitis. A study conducted from 2010 to 2012 in Spain found patients with acute bronchitis who took six hundred milligrams of ibuprofen experienced nine days of frequent coughing. Those who received amoxicillin reported eleven days of frequent coughing, and individuals who received a placebo also had eleven days with frequent coughing. Although these results were not considered to be statistically significant, they do suggest some patients with bronchitis may be able to shorten the duration of their symptoms by using ibuprofen. This medicine is available over-the-counter, and stronger doses can be prescribed by a doctor. Patients should always ask their healthcare professional before taking ibuprofen, especially if they have kidney, liver, or cardiac issues.

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