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[Beta-2-agonists are still of value. Tolerance does not affect the bronchodilating effect]
1Arbetsmedicinska enheten, Arbetslivsinstitutet, Solna.
Lakartidningen
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Beta 2-adrenoceptor agonists are key for obstructive lung disease but can cause tolerance. However, their bronchodilatory effect remains largely unaffected by this tolerance, preserving therapeutic benefits.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Medicine
Context:
- Beta 2-adrenoceptor agonists are widely used for obstructive lung diseases like asthma.
- Tolerance and side effects are recognized limitations of beta 2-agonist therapy.
- Beta 2-adrenoceptors are present in various human tissues, influencing systemic effects.
Purpose:
- To investigate the development of tolerance to beta 2-adrenoceptor agonists.
- To assess the impact of continuous beta 2-stimulation on bronchodilation and protective effects.
Summary:
- Continuous stimulation of beta 2-adrenoceptors leads to tolerance in most tissues.
- The bronchodilatory effect of beta 2-agonists appears resistant to tolerance development.
- Tolerance to the protective effects against bronchoconstrictors (methacholine, adenosine, exercise) is observed but remains partial.
Impact:
- Understanding beta 2-agonist tolerance is crucial for optimizing asthma and COPD management.
- Despite tolerance, residual protective effects suggest continued therapeutic value.
- Further research may explore strategies to mitigate tolerance while maximizing bronchodilation.