HelpDesk answers: is it safe to add long-acting β-2 agonists to inhaled corticosteroids in patients with persistent asthma?

J Fam Pract. 2015 Jun;64(6):370-1.

Abstract

Possibly. Long-acting β-2 agonists (LABAs) used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) don't appear to increase all-cause mortality or serious adverse events in patients with persistent asthma compared with ICS alone. Studies showing an increase in catastrophic events had serious methodologic issues. A large surveillance study is ongoing.

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Inhalation
  • Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists / adverse effects
  • Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists / therapeutic use*
  • Albuterol / adverse effects
  • Albuterol / analogs & derivatives
  • Albuterol / therapeutic use
  • Asthma / drug therapy*
  • Asthma / mortality
  • Bronchodilator Agents / adverse effects
  • Bronchodilator Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Glucocorticoids / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic
  • Salmeterol Xinafoate

Substances

  • Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists
  • Bronchodilator Agents
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Salmeterol Xinafoate
  • Albuterol