In asthma management, LABAs are associated with increased risk of asthma-related deaths when used improperly; how is risk minimized?

• A. By combining with an inhaled glucocorticoid
• B. By using LABA only during acute symptoms
• C. By using LABA alone
• D. By avoiding inhaled glucocorticoids

Answer: (A)

Long-acting beta-agonists provide lasting bronchodilation but do not address the underlying airway inflammation of asthma. When used by themselves, they can improve symptoms temporarily while inflammation continues, increasing the risk of severe exacerbations and asthma-related death. Pairing the LABA with an inhaled corticosteroid tackles the inflammatory component, reducing exacerbations and enabling safe, effective maintenance bronchodilation. This is why guidelines recommend LABA only in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid. Using LABA during acute symptoms or LABA alone, or avoiding inhaled glucocorticoids, fails to control the inflammatory disease and keeps patients at higher risk.