Final answer:
Bronchodilators like albuterol and phenylephrine are used to open bronchial passages in asthma patients by dilating the airways for easier breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drugs that are meant to open bronchial passages and treat conditions such as asthma are known as bronchodilators. These medications, such as albuterol, help to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier for air to flow in and out of the lungs. Albuterol is a sympathomimetic drug that activates the same receptors in the bronchial tissue.
It results in the dilation of the bronchi and bronchioles, reducing resistance in the respiratory airway and increasing airflow to the lungs. Another example of a sympathomimetic bronchodilator is phenylephrine, which is commonly used in decongestants. Phenylephrine acts as an α₁-adrenergic agonist and also works by dilating the passages in the lungs.
For chronic management of asthma, medications like corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and prevent asthma attacks, although bronchodilators are crucial for the immediate relief of symptoms during an asthma attack.