What category of drug includes Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent HFA) for asthma treatment?

Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent HFA) belongs to the category of anticholinergics, which are a class of medications that work by blocking the action of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors in the airways. This action leads to bronchodilation, helping to open up the air passages and improve airflow in individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Anticholinergics like Ipratropium are particularly useful as they can provide relief from bronchospasm and help manage symptoms, especially when used in combination with other types of asthma medications. They are often considered for patients who may not respond adequately to beta-agonist therapy or as an adjunct treatment.

Other categories mentioned, such as inhalable corticosteroids and oral corticosteroids, function primarily to reduce inflammation in the airways rather than directly causing bronchodilation. Short-acting beta agonists, on the other hand, are often used for rapid relief of asthma symptoms but do so through a different mechanism that involves stimulating beta-adrenergic receptors in the lungs.

In summary, Ipratropium bromide is categorized as an anticholinergic due to its mechanism of action that helps alleviate respiratory