Also referred to as Beta₂adrenergic receptor agonists

This class of medications are used to treat asthma and other pulmonary diseases.

Method of Action:

They cause relaxation of smooth muscle causing dilation of the bronchial passage of the lungs . Dilation also can occur in liver , uterine muscle and can release insulin.

Side effects:
   -    Tremor
   -    Anxiety
   -    Insomnia

Typically seen in forms for use as inhaler or dry poweder which can be inhaled

3 main classifications

1.)    Short-Acting Beta₂ Agonists
2.)    Long-Acting Beta₂ Agonists
3.)    Ultra Long-Acting Beta₂ Agonists

Short-Acting Beta2 Agonists

.        Albuterol or Salbutamol    [Proventil, Ventolin, Pro-Air]
.        Lovosalbutamol    [Xopenex]
.        Metaproterenol    [Alotec, Alupent, Novasmasol]
.        Pirbuterol    [Maxair]
.        Terbutaline    [Brethine, Bricanyl, Brethaire] – often used to stop contractions and asthma

Long-Acting Beta2 Agonists

.        Bambuterol    [Bambec, Oxeol]
.        Clenbuterol
.        Formoterol    [Foradil/Foradile]
.        Salmeterol    [Advair]

Ultra Long-Acting Beta2 Agonists

.        Indacaterol  –  is currenlty in research phase