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The beta 2-agonist controversy revisited
1Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Summary
Concerns about beta 2-agonists causing increased asthma mortality and morbidity are not supported by current evidence. These asthma medications remain a safe and effective treatment option for patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Beta 2-agonists are widely used for asthma treatment.
- Controversies exist regarding their safety, including potential links to increased mortality and morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize the controversy surrounding the safety of beta 2-agonists in asthma treatment.
- To address concerns about mortality, morbidity, airway reactivity, and tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of English-language articles from the late 1960s onwards.
- Selection of papers representing key controversies regarding beta 2-agonists.
Main Results:
- Available data do not support major adverse effects from inhaled beta 2-agonists.
- Evidence linking beta 2-agonists as a class to increased asthma mortality is weak.
- Concerns about increased morbidity and unfavorable modulation of airway reactivity are unconvincing.
Conclusions:
- Beta 2-agonists have a long history of safe and effective use in asthma management.
- Despite occasional controversy, beta 2-agonists are an appropriate and reliable treatment option.