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Pharmacologic therapy for asthma: overview and historical perspective.
1Department of Medicine, Royal University Hospital, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
|March 12, 1999
Summary
Asthma pharmacotherapy evolved over 30 years, with five drug classes rooted in ancient herbal remedies. Modern treatment integrates these medications with patient education and environmental control for comprehensive asthma management.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Medical History
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Asthma pharmacotherapy from 1967-1997 primarily utilized five drug classes: beta 2-agonists, anticholinergics, theophyllines, cromones, and corticosteroids.
- Four of these drug classes have historical roots in herbal treatments dating back 5000-6000 years.
Observation:
- The historical perspective highlights the long-standing use of natural compounds in treating respiratory ailments.
- The evolution of asthma medications reflects advancements in pharmaceutical science and understanding of respiratory physiology.
Findings:
- The review covers the history of asthma pharmacotherapy up to the late 1990s.
- It outlines a contemporary approach to asthma drug therapy.
Implications:
- Understanding the history of asthma pharmacotherapy provides context for current treatment strategies.
- Effective asthma management requires an integrated approach, combining pharmacotherapy with patient education and environmental control.