Which of the following is a common side effect of bronchodilators?

Bronchodilators are medications commonly used to relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). One of the known side effects of these medications, especially beta-agonists, is tremors. This occurs because bronchodilators stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors not only in the lungs but also in other tissues, including skeletal muscle. The stimulation of these receptors can lead to increased muscle activity, resulting in shaking or tremors, particularly in the hands.

This side effect is often dose-dependent and may vary among individuals, but it is a well-documented and recognized phenomenon in clinical practice. It is useful for healthcare professionals to monitor for this side effect, as it can impact a patient’s ability to perform daily activities or adhere to their prescribed medication regimen. Understanding this common side effect helps in assessing overall treatment efficacy and patient comfort while using bronchodilator therapies.