[Inhaled beta agonists as a bronchodilator are a mainstay of asthma therapy: focusing on inhaled beta agonists and oral theophylline].

In asthmaticus with relatively stable control, inhaled beta agonists are the primary drugs used to relieve symptoms which are mild and does not necessitate patients to visit emergency rooms. Global strategy for asthma management and prevention NHLBI/WHO workshop report gives inhaled beta agonists a specific position as a "reliever". Long-acting beta agonists such as salmeterol and formoterol were developed as a compensatory drug for "controllers". They have prolonged duration of bronchodilation effects with more than 12 hours. When asthmatic patients given high doses of inhaled corticosteroids do not enjoy best management, oral slow-releasing theophylline would be considered as one of next additional drugs of choice.