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Asthma and COPD: A Focus on β-Agonists - Past, Present and Future
Jillian G Baker1,2, Dominick E Shaw3
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK. Jillian.Baker@nottingham.ac.uk.
Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology
|September 14, 2023
Summary
This review details the evolution of beta-agonist treatments for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), tracing advancements from early adrenaline use to modern selective and long-acting medications.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Respiratory Medicine
- Drug Development and Therapeutics
Background:
- Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are significant global health issues, impacting millions worldwide.
- Targeted drug development for asthma has a 120-year history, while COPD poses a substantial economic and social burden.
- Beta-agonists have been central to managing these respiratory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development of beta-agonist treatments for asthma and COPD.
- To analyze the progression from early adrenaline isolation to current generations of short- and long-acting beta-agonists.
- To examine the impact of improved selectivity and duration of action on therapeutic efficacy and guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of pharmacological advancements in beta-agonist development.
- Analysis of clinical compounds, including those no longer in use.
- Examination of pharmacological properties and their influence on treatment guidelines.
Main Results:
- The evolution of beta-agonists has led to significant improvements in asthma and COPD management.
- Generations of beta-agonists show advancements in selectivity and duration of action.
- Understanding the properties of different beta2-agonists informs their current place in treatment guidelines.
Conclusions:
- The development of beta-agonists has transformed the treatment landscape for asthma and COPD.
- Future developments aim to further enhance beta-agonist efficacy and accessibility.
- Expanding access to advanced respiratory medications in underserved regions is a key future goal.
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