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Asthma Medication May Make Asthma Worse

Research reported in the August 2003 issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation finds that asthma medications such as albuterol, ventolin and salbutamol can actually make the condition worse if taken over long periods of time.

The drugs in question are called beta-agonist drugs and are used in inhalers, nebulizers, tablets, liquid or injections. All have the effect of relaxing the smooth muscle lining of the lungs, allowing for a freer flow air. Short-term the drugs have an immediate effect but it’s a common occurrence that the drugs slowly lose their effectiveness if taken long-term.

Previously scientists thought the drugs stopped working because the patient’s body became desensitized to the drug.

This study found that over time, the drugs in question cause the lungs to produce an enzyme that causes them to become even more sensitive to conditions that trigger asthma attacks.

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