Drugs for ambulatory asthma

Article Abstract:

Asthma is caused by an inflammation of the airway that hinders breathing and the most effective treatments are anti-inflammatory drugs. These include corticosteroids, cromolyn sodium, beta2-agonists, theophylline and ipratropium. Corticosteroids can be inhaled, injected or taken orally. They are very effective in treating acute asthma attacks. Cromolyn may only be useful in preventing attacks, but it has almost no side effects. Beta2-agonists are effective bronchodilators, but they may increase the mortality from acute attacks when used regularly. Theophylline is less effective as a bronchodilator, but can be used to reduce the dosage of corticosteroids in steroid-dependent patients. Ipratropium has been used to supplement beta2-agonists and theophylline. Many of these drugs have serious side effects. Patients with mild asthma should use beta2-agonists only when needed. Those with more severe asthma may need oral corticosteroids.

Health aspects, Corticosteroids, Adrenocortical hormones, Adrenergic beta agonists, Adrenergic beta-agonists, Theophylline

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A combination of fluticasone and salmeterol for asthma

Article Abstract:

GlaxoSmithKline has produced Advair Diskus, an inhaler that contains fluticasone and salmeterol, for the treatment of asthma. These drugs are a corticosteroid and a beta-agonist, and should only be used together for patients who do not respond to corticosteroids alone.

United Kingdom, Evaluation, Product/Service Evaluation, Product information, GlaxoSmithKline PLC, Advair Diskus (Medication)

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Formoterol (Foradil Aerolizer) for asthma

Article Abstract:

The FDA has approved a beta(sub 2)-adrenergic receptor agonist for the treatment of asthma and exercise-induced bronchospasm. It should only be used in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid.

Switzerland, Pharmaceutical industry, Product introduction, Novartis AG, NVTSY, Foradil (Medication)

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