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Beta2-adrenergic receptor agonists are a class of drugs used to treat asthma.
They can be divided into two groups:
(1) short-acting and (2) long-acting.
They act on the β2-adrenergic receptor, thereby causing smooth muscle relaxation resulting in dilation of bronchial passages, vasodilation in muscle and liver, relaxation of uterine muscle and release of insulin. Side effects as insomnia, anxiety, and tremor occur in some patients. All β2 agonists are available in inhaler form (either metered-dose inhalers, which aerosolize the drug, or dry powder which can be breathed in).
Salbutamol (known as albuterol in the U.S.) also comes in a liquid form for nebulization, which is more commonly used in emergency rooms than inhalers. Salbutamol and terbutaline are also both available in oral forms.
In addition, several of these medications are available in intravenous forms including both salbutamol and terbutaline. It can be used in this form in severe cases of asthma, but more commonly it is used to suppress premature labor because it also relaxes uterine muscle, thereby inhibiting contractions.
Short-Acting Beta2 Agonists
Long-Acting Beta2 Agonists
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