Formoterol, tolerance

Fluoroquinolones, 12.250, 18.271 Fluorouracil, adverse reactions, 23.476 Folic acid, dietary supplementation, 19.369 safety aspects, 27.407 Formoterol, tolerance, 24.187 Fragrances, contact allergy, 20.149... 

Several studies have shown that regular use of formoterol results in the development of tolerance to its broncho-protective effects, even with treatment periods as short as 1 week. The significance of this tolerance is unclear, but it is potentially important clinically. 

Totterman Kl, Huhti L, Sutinen E, Backman R, PietinaUio A, Falck M, Larsson P, Sehoos O. Tolerability to high doses of formoterol and terbutaline via Turbuhaler for 3 days in stable asthmatic patients. Eur Respir 1 1998 12(3) 573-9. 

Data relating to budesonide + formoterol therapy from six randomized controlled trials of at least 6 months n = 14 346) have been analysed [60 ]. SMART therapy was well tolerated compared with fixed-dose alternatives, and there was no increased risk of death or cardiac-related serious adverse events or withdrawals because of adverse events asthma-related serious adverse events and withdrawals were significantly reduced. Limitations of the randomized controlled trials were noted, particularly exclusion of patients with co-morbidities, necessitating continuing surveillance. 

Both budesonide/formoterol doses were well tolerated with safety profiles similar to formoterol. Pneumonia adverse events occurred in 6.4%, 4.7% and 2.7% of patients in the budesonide/formoterol 320/9, 160/9, and formoterol groups. Over 12 months, both budesonide/formoterol doses reduced the exacerbation rate (defined with or without antibiotic treatment) versus formoterol. 

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