Respiratory system: applied pharmacology

Knowledge and application of respiratory pharmacology is essential for both anaesthetists and intensive care physicians. Patients often present with co-existing respiratory disease for which they may be taking prescription medications. Respiratory function is often altered by anaesthetic drugs and interventions, therefore an in-depth understanding of respiratory pathophysiology and pharmacology is required in order to safely treat these patients. This article describes the basics of the bronchial tone, the ability of the lung to handle and metabolize drugs in addition to discussion of the drugs that can be used to alter bronchial tone and pulmonary vascular resistance.