Effects of dual therapy with corticosteroids plus long acting beta2-agonists in asthma.
Asthma is a common condition characterised by inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness and reversible airflow obstruction. Effective pharmacotherapy must therefore be aimed at attenuating these underlying hallmark features. Despite the use of regular low-to-moderate doses of inhaled corticosteroids, many patients remain symptomatic and require further 2nd line controller therapy. The addition of a concomitant long acting beta2-agonist provides an effective means in which to alleviate symptoms and reduce exacerbation frequency. Moreover, both agents can be combined in a single inhaler, and provide patients with a more convenient and effective way in which to deliver treatment to the endobronchial tree. This evidenced-based review article discusses the effects of such combination inhalers upon a variety of outcome parameters and their effects upon asthmatics across a range of severities.
Currie
Graeme P
GP
Department of Respiratory Medicine, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZN Scotland, UK. graeme_currie@yahoo.com
Lee
Daniel K C
DK
Wilson
Andrew M
AM
D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D013806:Theophylline / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists; D013806:Theophylline