For the treatment of acute exacerbations of bronchial asthma accompanied by heart failure, short-acting β2-receptor agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, and theophylline are recommended. Short-acting β2-receptor agonists such as salbutamol can rapidly relieve bronchospasm, inhaled corticosteroids such as budesonide can reduce airway inflammation, and theophylline drugs such as aminophylline can improve respiratory function and enhance myocardial contractility. While these medications relieve asthma symptoms, it is also important to be mindful of their impact on cardiac function to avoid increasing the burden on the heart.
1. Short-acting β2-receptor agonists are the first-line drugs for treating acute exacerbations of bronchial asthma, rapidly dilating the bronchi and relieving breathing difficulties. Salbutamol is one of the most commonly used drugs, administered via nebulization or aerosol. It has a rapid onset and short duration of action, making it suitable for use during acute attacks. However, it should be used with caution in patients with heart failure, as it may cause tachycardia and arrhythmias, increasing the burden on the heart.
2. Inhaled corticosteroids are key medications for controlling chronic inflammation in asthma, reducing airway inflammation and decreasing airway hyperresponsiveness. Budesonide is a commonly used inhaled corticosteroid; administered locally, it has fewer side effects, and long-term use can effectively prevent acute asthma attacks. For patients with heart failure, inhaled corticosteroids do not significantly affect cardiac function, but systemic side effects such as osteoporosis and elevated blood sugar should be monitored.
3. Theophylline drugs have bronchodilatory and cardiotonic effects, making them suitable for patients with bronchial asthma and accompanying heart failure. Aminophylline is a commonly used theophylline drug, administered orally or intravenously. It can improve respiratory function and enhance myocardial contractility; however, it has a narrow therapeutic window, and overdose may lead to toxic reactions such as arrhythmias and seizures. When using theophylline drugs, blood drug concentrations must be closely monitored, and dosage adjustments made to ensure safety and effectiveness.
When treating acute exacerbations of bronchial asthma accompanied by heart failure, the dual effects of medications on the bronchi and heart should be considered. Medications that can rapidly relieve asthma symptoms without increasing the burden on the heart should be selected. Short-acting β2-receptor agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, and theophylline are commonly used treatment options. However, close monitoring of the patient's cardiac function and adverse drug reactions is necessary during use to ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatment. Through rational drug selection and individualized treatment, acute asthma exacerbations can be effectively controlled, improving the patient's quality of life.