The effect of long-acting beta(2)-agonists on airway inflammation in asthmatic patients

Early observations suggested that the inhibition by long-acting beta (2)-ag onists (LABAs) of nan-specific bronchial hyperresponsiveness following alle rgen challenge was unrelated to bronchodilation or functional antagonism an d might be a reflection of anti-inflammatory activity. Investigation of the effect of LABAs on airway inflammatory responses has d emonstrated an inhibition of eosinophil recruitment in allergen challenge s tudies. Nevertheless, results from biopsy and other studies suggest that th e chronic inflammatory process in asthma patients is unaffected by these dr ugs. There is no evidence from biopsy studies that LABAs are pro-inflammato ry or that they mask existing inflammation. The beneficial effects of LABAs in allergen challenge are probably mediated through stabilization of mast cells. Recent evidence suggests that LABAs m ay reduce numbers of neutrophils and their associated markers; this observa tion needs to be confirmed in future studies and its relevance to the treat ment of asthma determined.