Which of the following is a long-acting bronchodilator?

Which of the following is a long-acting bronchodilator?

• A. Tiotropium
• B. Albuterol
• C. Ipratropium
• D. Theophylline

Answer: (A)

Long-acting bronchodilators provide sustained airway dilation when used regularly for maintenance. Tiotropium fits this role as a long-acting antimuscarinic inhaler (LAMA); it blocks M3 receptors in the airway smooth muscle, producing bronchodilation that lasts about a day, making it a common maintenance medication for COPD. In contrast, albuterol is a quick-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) used for rapid relief of symptoms and wears off in a few hours. Ipratropium is a short-acting antimuscarinic (SAMA) used mainly for immediate relief rather than ongoing maintenance. Theophylline can cause bronchodilation but is older, has a narrow therapeutic window, and is not preferred for long-term maintenance therapy in current practice.

Long-acting bronchodilators provide sustained airway dilation when used regularly for maintenance. Tiotropium fits this role as a long-acting antimuscarinic inhaler (LAMA); it blocks M3 receptors in the airway smooth muscle, producing bronchodilation that lasts about a day, making it a common maintenance medication for COPD.

In contrast, albuterol is a quick-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) used for rapid relief of symptoms and wears off in a few hours. Ipratropium is a short-acting antimuscarinic (SAMA) used mainly for immediate relief rather than ongoing maintenance. Theophylline can cause bronchodilation but is older, has a narrow therapeutic window, and is not preferred for long-term maintenance therapy in current practice.