What class of medication is Ipratropium known as?

Ipratropium is classified as a Short-Acting Muscarinic Antagonist (SAMA). This class of medications works by blocking muscarinic receptors in the airways, leading to bronchodilation. Ipratropium is often used in the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to provide relief from bronchospasm, especially during acute exacerbations.

Being a SAMA, Ipratropium has a relatively quick onset of action but does not provide the long-lasting effects seen with Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonists (LAMAs) or the prolonged bronchodilation from Long-Acting Beta Agonists (LABAs). It is also distinct from inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), which primarily work to reduce inflammation in the airways rather than directly cause bronchodilation. Thus, the classification of Ipratropium as a SAMA is accurate and relevant for understanding its therapeutic role in respiratory conditions.