Use of controller medications in patients initiated on a long-acting β2-adrenergic agonist before and after safety alerts

Abstract

Previous use of a controller medication before initiation of an LABA was observed in 40% of study patients with a diagnosis of asthma, 37% with COPD, 65% with COPD and asthma, and 21% of patients with no diagnosis of asthma or COPD. Use of a controller medication decreased significantly in patients with asthma or no diagnosis of asthma or COPD following alerts issued by FDA regarding the increased risk of asthma-related death in patients receiving LABAs.