LABA monotherapy in asthma: An avoidable problem

摘要

Long-acting beta 2-agonists (LABAs) (or beta-adrenoceptor agonists) improve Lung function and quality of Life, and are recommended at step 3 of the national guidelines for the management of asthma. However, chronic exposure to LABAs can be associated with tolerance and reduced sensitivity to the bronchodilator effects of salbutamol raising concerns over their use in asthma. In 2006 a large randomised trial called SMART (Salmeterol Multi-Centre Asthma Research Trial) involving 26 355 patients randomised to either inhaled salmeterol or placebo in addition to their usual care was reported. This trial found that significantly more serious adverse events and asthma-related deaths occurred in the salmeterol group.