A client with COPD is prescribed a daily scheduled maintenance drug by inhalation that decreases mucus production and airway resistance. Which drug will the nurse teach the client about?

A. Montelukast: Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used mainly for asthma and allergic rhinitis. It reduces inflammation mediated by leukotrienes but does not directly decrease airway mucus production or act as a bronchodilator in COPD. B. Ipratropium: Ipratropium is an inhaled anticholinergic bronchodilator that blocks muscarinic receptors in the airways, reducing bronchoconstriction and decreasing mucus secretion. It is commonly prescribed as a maintenance therapy for COPD to improve airflow, decrease airway resistance, and enhance respiratory function with regular use. C. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic that thins thick secretions to facilitate expectoration. While it helps manage mucus, it does not act as a bronchodilator or significantly reduce airway resistance in COPD. D. Albuterol: Albuterol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist that provides rapid bronchodilation for acute symptom relief. It is typically used as a rescue inhaler rather than a scheduled maintenance therapy for chronic management, and it does not have sustained effects on mucus production.