What is a therapeutic effect of bronchodilators like Xanthine drugs?

Study for the Respiratory Therapy Pharmacology Test. Excel with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

The therapeutic effect of bronchodilators, particularly Xanthine drugs, is primarily to relax bronchial smooth muscles. This relaxation leads to the dilation of the airways, which facilitates easier airflow in and out of the lungs. By relaxing these muscles, bronchodilators help alleviate symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest, which are common in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

While other options may represent important aspects of respiratory therapy, they do not accurately reflect the direct action of Xanthine drugs. For instance, decreasing bronchial secretions pertains more to medications like anticholinergics, which specifically target mucus production. Reducing airway inflammation is more associated with corticosteroids, which are designed to decrease swelling and irritation in the airways. Enhancing pulmonary surfactant production is particularly relevant in the context of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, rather than a primary effect of bronchodilators. Thus, the correct option focuses on the core function of bronchodilators in managing respiratory conditions.

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