Long acting beta2 agonists

Symbicort is a combination medication

In the management of asthma, long-term control of symptoms is vital. If not, patients will have to suffer frequent bouts of asthma attacks and may require frequent hospital admissions. At the same time, the quality of life among such patients will also diminish. Long acting beta2 agonists is one drug that can help relieve moderate to severe persistent asthma although it should not be used alone but only in combination with a corticosteroids.

Mechanism of action

Long-acting beta2 agonists work in the same way as other beta2 agonists by relaxing the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchial tree. By relaxing the smooth muscles, the narrowed airways within the lungs would be expanded and the airflow will be improved. The difference between short-acting beta2 agonists and the long-acting beta2 agonists is that the long-acting beta2 agonists will maintain its effect for around 12 hours as against the short-acting beta2 agonists, which will not last for more than 4 to 6 hours. Therefore, it is possible to take the long-acting beta2 agonists in less frequent intervals for a longer duration of time.

Dosage and method of use

As mentioned earlier, long-acting beta2 agonists are recommended to be used along with corticosteroids. By doing so, researchers have found that the effect of corticosteroids will be augmented and therefore the asthma can be better managed. However, it should not be a substitute for corticosteroids as it does not have an anti-inflammatory effect. Among the long-acting beta2 agonists, the two commonest medications include formoterol and salmeterol. The two drugs are generally combined with corticosteroids as in the case of formoterol and budesonide (Symbicort), formoterol and mometasone (Zenhale) and salmeterol and fluticasone (Advair).

Side effects of long-acting beta2 agonists

The side effects expected with long-acting beta2 agonists are almost the same as with short-acting beta2 agonists. However, given the fact that long-acting beta2 agonists are used along with corticosteroids, it is possible that some of the side effects experienced by these patients are due to corticosteroids. For instances, soreness and irritation of the throat and hoarseness of voice is the result of corticosteroid use and not because of the beta2 agonists. The side effects resulting from the use of long-acting beta2 agonists may include, headache, dizziness, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, nervousness…etc. However, these side effects are usually mild and may disappear with the continued use of the medication. 

In certain instances, some people may show allergic reactions to these medications. Therefore, one should seek medical attention if signs such as hives and rashes appear on the skin. Chest tightness and palpitations are also possible with beta2 agonists and should also be an indication to seek medical advice without a delay.

Lastly, one should stick to the prescription advice given by the doctor when taking long-acting beta2 agonists and should not alter the dose or increase the frequency of its use without seeking medical advice.