LABA stands for Long-Acting Beta-Agonist. It is a type of medication used for the treatment of respiratory disorders, particularly asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Long-Acting Beta-Agonists are a class of bronchodilators that work by relaxing and opening the airways, thus improving breathing. Unlike short-acting beta-agonists that provide immediate relief during an asthma attack, LABAs have a prolonged duration of action, typically up to 12 hours. These medications are usually taken twice a day to provide long-term relief and help prevent symptoms and exacerbations.
LABAs are often used in combination with corticosteroids, as they have a synergistic effect in managing airway inflammation and controlling symptoms. They come in various forms, including inhalers, nebulizer solutions, and dry powder inhalers.
It is important to note that LABAs should not be used as monotherapy for asthma, as they may increase the risk of severe asthma exacerbations. Therefore, they should always be used in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid. Additionally, LABAs are not recommended as a sole therapy for COPD but should be prescribed in combination with other appropriate medications.
Common examples of LABAs include salmeterol, formoterol, indacaterol, and vilanterol. Patients taking LABAs should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals to ensure proper use, address any side effects, and regularly assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
