LONG-ACTING INHALED BETA(2)-AGONISTS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ASTHMA - RECENT ADVANCES AND CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS

Salmeterol and formoterol belong to a new class of inhaled beta(2)-ago nists with a prolonged duration of action. At the time these agents we re introduced, there was uncertainty regarding the safety of beta(2)-a gonist therapy in asthma and concern that they might lead to a deterio ration in asthma control. Recent studies, in contrast, have demonstrat ed both their safety and therapeutic efficacy. The aims of this review are to highlight these new developments and to consider the place of these long-acting beta(2)-agonists in asthma management strategies.