theories concerning beta agonist toxicity

Last reviewed 01/2018

Possible explanation for the apparent toxicity of beta-agonists in asthma include:

  • excessive use results in cardiac arrhythmias and hypokalaemia
  • beta-agonists may promote an over-reliance on symptom relief at the expense of anti-inflammatory therapy
  • tachyphylaxis
  • bronchodilatation results in increased allergen penetration