The Effect of Inhaled Beta-2 Agonists on Heart Rate in Patients With Asthma: Sensor-Based Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pulmonology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Beta-2 agonists are crucial for asthma management, providing bronchodilation.
• Cardiac adrenoceptors can be stimulated by inhaled beta-2 agonists, potentially causing side effects.
• Understanding the cardiac effects of beta-2 agonists is vital for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of beta-2 agonists on heart rate (HR) in individuals with asthma.
• To differentiate the cardiac effects of long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs) versus short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABAs).

Main Methods:

• Observational study (myAirCoach Quantification Campaign) utilizing smart inhalers and self-reported data.
• Continuous HR monitoring via Fitbit Charge HR trackers.
• Inclusion of adult patients with uncontrolled asthma using inhaled medications.

Main Results:

• Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) users exhibited no clinically significant increase in average daytime heart rate (0.8 bpm difference).
• Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) inhalation led to a steep, acute HR increase, normalizing within approximately 138 minutes.
• Analysis included assessment of inhaler usage timing throughout the day.

Conclusions:

• Inhaled long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs) do not appear to have a clinically relevant effect on heart rate.
• Short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABAs) are associated with a transient, short-term elevation in heart rate.