LONG-ACTING BETA(2)-ADRENOCEPTOR AGONISTS FOR ASTHMA AND COPD

The introduction of long-acting B-2-adrenoceptor agonists such as salm eterol and formoterol has opened new perspectives for the treatment of asthma and, also COPD, These drugs are particularly useful in bronchi al asthma and meet the requirements of several treatment guidelines to combine long-acting bronchodilator therapy with inhaled corticosteroi ds in patients with persistent The role of long-acting B-2-adrenocepto r agonists for management of COPD is less clear. While effects on lung function will be small, parameters of improved quality of life and ex ercise tolerance may verify the clinical role of long-acting beta(2)-a drenoceptor agonists for COPD treatment in the future.