Asthma or COPD: which antihypertensive should be avoided?

Asthma or COPD: which antihypertensive should be avoided?

• A. Beta blockers
• B. ACE inhibitors
• C. Diuretics
• D. Calcium channel blockers

Answer: (A)

Blockade of beta-2 receptors in the airways removes a key bronchodilatory mechanism, so nonselective beta blockers can trigger bronchoconstriction. In asthma and COPD, this can worsen symptoms or provoke an acute exacerbation. Because they block both heart and lung beta receptors, these drugs are generally avoided in airway diseases. Cardioselective beta-1 blockers are less likely to cause bronchospasm and may be used with caution in some patients, but often clinicians prefer alternatives. Other antihypertensives such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, and calcium channel blockers do not carry the same risk of bronchoconstriction and are typically safer choices for someone with asthma or COPD.

Blockade of beta-2 receptors in the airways removes a key bronchodilatory mechanism, so nonselective beta blockers can trigger bronchoconstriction. In asthma and COPD, this can worsen symptoms or provoke an acute exacerbation. Because they block both heart and lung beta receptors, these drugs are generally avoided in airway diseases. Cardioselective beta-1 blockers are less likely to cause bronchospasm and may be used with caution in some patients, but often clinicians prefer alternatives. Other antihypertensives such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, and calcium channel blockers do not carry the same risk of bronchoconstriction and are typically safer choices for someone with asthma or COPD.