Beta 2-Adrenergic Agonists is a group of medications that also can be 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 powder 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 currently in the research phase