What is the brand name of Pirbuterol, a SABA used for asthma?

Pirbuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) that is primarily used for the relief of asthma symptoms and for bronchospasm. The brand name associated with Pirbuterol is Maxair.

Understanding the class of medications, SABAs are essential in managing acute asthma symptoms by directly relaxing the muscles of the airways, leading to bronchodilation. Maxair was particularly recognized for its effectiveness in quickly alleviating wheezing and shortness of breath associated with asthma.

The other choices refer to other medications within the SABA class or related categories, which may contribute to confusion. Brethine is the brand name for terbutaline, which is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA). Alupent is associated with metaproterenol, another bronchodilator but not Pirbuterol. Proventil refers to albuterol, another commonly used SABA that is often prescribed for similar indications but is distinct from Pirbuterol.

Recognizing the specific brand names of medications is crucial for safe prescribing and patient education, especially for conditions like asthma, where medication specificity can impact treatment outcomes.