For combination inhalers, why must LABAs be paired with a corticosteroid?
Answer
LABAs should not be used alone for asthma
Long-Acting Beta Agonists (LABAs) function as bronchodilators, effectively keeping the airways open for extended periods by relaxing the airway muscles. However, because LABAs only address the muscular component (bronchodilation) and do not treat the underlying inflammation that drives asthma progression and exacerbations, they carry a significant risk if used as monotherapy. Therefore, established medical guidance mandates that LABAs, such as those paired with ICS in dual-therapy preventers, must always be combined with a corticosteroid to ensure that the fundamental inflammatory process is being managed concurrently.
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