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Is it correct to not give norepinephrine for bronchospasm because it has beta activity?

1) Yes, it is correct
2) No, it is incorrect
3) Cannot be determined

User Mefi
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1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

It's incorrect to avoid norepinephrine for bronchospasm solely due to beta activity since the concern is more about the specific beta-1 effects on the heart, not the beta activity itself. Bronchospasm is treated with medications that target beta-2 receptors, which are more effective in relaxing bronchial smooth muscle.

Step-by-step explanation:

It is incorrect to say that norepinephrine (NE) should not be given for bronchospasm solely because it has beta activity. Norepinephrine primarily binds to the beta-1 adrenergic receptors, which predominantly affect the heart, increasing the heart rate and force of contraction. Bronchial smooth muscle relaxation, which would help alleviate bronchospasm, is mainly mediated by beta-2 receptors. While NE does have some activity at beta-2 receptors, it is not the first choice for bronchospasm because its strong beta-1 activity might lead to unwanted cardiac effects. Bronchospasm treatments typically involve bronchodilators that preferentially act on beta-2 receptors, like albuterol, to relax bronchial smooth muscle without the significant cardiac effects associated with beta-1 stimulation. Therefore, the use of NE in the setting of bronchospasm is not ideal, but the beta activity isn't the primary reason; rather, it's the specific type of beta activity.

User Weshouman
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