β-Adrenergic receptor agonist bronchodilators in the treatment of COPD

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

After smoking cessation, bronchodilators are first-line therapy in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [1]. Among the bronchodilators currently available, selective h-adrenergic receptor agonists have been extensively used over the last 30 years. An interesting paradox is that lack of response to h-agonists has often been used to define patients with COPD, particularly in clinical trials. This has often led to a general impression that treatment of COPD offers little benefit. Available data, however, clearly demonstrate that the majority of COPD patients respond to bronchodilators, including h-agonists [2,3]. Moreover, evidence is accumulating that h-agonists may benefit patients by mechanisms different from simple bronchodilatation. This chapter will review the current understanding of h-agonist bronchodilators and their role in the treatment of COPD.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationPharmacotherapy in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
PublisherCRC Press
Pages217-238
Number of pages22
ISBN (Electronic)9780203913406
ISBN (Print)9780824740290
StatePublished - Jan 1 2003

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine(all)

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