Beta agonists and ventilation.

Inhaled beta agonists.

The beta(2) adrenoreceptor is a large molecule of some 413 amino acids. The duration of stimulation of this receptor depends on where and for how long a beta(2) adrenergic drug attaches itself to the beta(2) adrenoreceptor. beta(2) adrenergic drugs have been used for over 5,000 years, but only recently have we had the advantage of adrenergic drugs specific to the beta(2) adrenoreceptor. The sho...

Beta-Adrenergic Agonists

Inhaled β₂-adrenoceptor (β₂-AR) agonists are considered essential bronchodilator drugs in the treatment of bronchial asthma, both as symptoms-relievers and, in combination with inhaled corticosteroids, as disease-controllers. In this article, we first review the basic mechanisms by which the β₂-adrenergic system contributes to the control of airway smooth muscle tone. Then, we go on describing ...

Beta-agonists--friends or foes?

Addition of intravenous beta(2)-agonists to inhaled beta(2)-agonists for acute asthma.

BACKGROUND Inhaled beta-agonist therapy is central to the management of acute asthma. This review evaluates the benefit of an additional use of intravenous beta(2)-agonist agents. OBJECTIVES To determine the benefit of adding intravenous (IV) beta(2)-agonists to inhaled beta(2)-agonist therapy for acute asthma treated in the emergency department. SEARCH METHODS Randomised controlled trials ...

Safety of long-acting beta-agonists.

Beta2-adrenoceptor agonists have been used as bronchodilators in the management of bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); however, there is evidence suggesting that beta2adrenoceptor agonist use may increase morbidity and mortality1. The long term beta-agonists, salmeterol and formeterol were introduced at the time of heightened concern about safety of beta2 agonist ...