Certain commonly used drugs can cause bronchoconstriction in individuals with asthma, potentially exacerbating their symptoms. These include:
- Beta-Blockers: Non-selective beta-blockers (propranolol) are particularly risky as they can block beta-2 receptors in the lungs leading to bronchoconstriction.
- Aspirin and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These can trigger asthma attacks in some people, especially those with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD).
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors: Used for hypertension and heart failure, these drugs can cause coughing and potentially trigger asthma symptoms.
- Adenosine: Used for SVT