Short Acting Beta Agonist Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Short Acting Beta Agonist?

Short acting beta agonists, also known as SABA, are medications used to treat asthma and other breathing problems. They work by relaxing the smooth muscles around the airways in the lungs, which helps open them up and make it easier to breathe. SABA’s act quickly but their effects last for a short amount of time so they are usually used to provide quick relief from symptoms like wheezing or chest tightness. SABA’s can be inhaled through an inhaler or nebulizer and may also come in pill form. When inhaled, they usually start working within minutes and can provide symptom relief for several hours. For people with more severe asthma attacks, SABAs may be combined with inhaled corticosteroids for stronger relief. SABAs should not be used as a long-term treatment option because they do not address underlying causes of asthma such as inflammation or allergies. People with chronic asthma should see their doctor regularly and use maintenance treatments such as corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers instead of relying on SABA’s alone. Overall, short acting beta agonists are a fast-acting medication that can provide quick relief from acute asthma symptoms. While they cannot replace regular maintenance treatments for those with chronic asthma, they can provide valuable symptom relief during flare ups or exacerbations of symptoms.