Which medication can be inhaled to treat dyspnea?

Inhaled medications are commonly utilized to manage dyspnea, which is the sensation of shortness of breath. Albuterol, a bronchodilator, is one of the primary inhaled treatments for acute dyspnea due to bronchoconstriction in conditions like asthma or COPD. It works by relaxing the muscles of the airways, making it easier to breathe.

While morphine may relieve dyspnea in some cases, particularly in patients with chronic pain or end-of-life situations, it is not typically administered via inhalation for this purpose. Instead, morphine is usually administered orally or intravenously to manage pain and provide sedation, which can indirectly relieve the sensation of breathlessness.

Atrovent (ipratropium bromide) is another inhaled medication that provides relief by reducing mucus production and leading to bronchodilation, making it suitable for managing dyspnea associated with COPD.

Spiriva (tiotropium) is also an inhaled medication, often used as a long-acting bronchodilator for COPD and asthma, helping to prevent episodes of dyspnea.

The correct choice aligns with the understanding that inhaled medications like albuterol and Atrovent are specifically designed for respiratory conditions, while morphine is generally not