A patient with persistent, frequent asthma exacerbations asks about a long-acting beta2-agonist. What should the NP tell them?

A patient with persistent, frequent asthma exacerbations asks about a long-acting beta2-agonist. What should the NP tell them?

• A. LABAs should be combined with an inhaled glucocorticoid
• B. LABAs can be used PRN
• C. LABAs are safer than SABAs
• D. LABAs can be used as monotherapy

Answer: (A)

Long-acting beta2-agonists provide sustained bronchodilation but do not address airway inflammation. In persistent asthma with frequent exacerbations, controlling inflammation is essential, and this is best achieved with an inhaled corticosteroid. Using a LABA in addition to an inhaled corticosteroid offers both anti-inflammatory control and ongoing bronchodilation, which reduces the frequency and severity of exacerbations and improves overall control. LABAs should not be used by themselves or on a PRN basis, because that approach does not treat inflammation and has been associated with worse outcomes. Therefore, the appropriate counseling is to use a LABA only in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid for persistent asthma.

Long-acting beta2-agonists provide sustained bronchodilation but do not address airway inflammation. In persistent asthma with frequent exacerbations, controlling inflammation is essential, and this is best achieved with an inhaled corticosteroid. Using a LABA in addition to an inhaled corticosteroid offers both anti-inflammatory control and ongoing bronchodilation, which reduces the frequency and severity of exacerbations and improves overall control. LABAs should not be used by themselves or on a PRN basis, because that approach does not treat inflammation and has been associated with worse outcomes. Therefore, the appropriate counseling is to use a LABA only in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid for persistent asthma.