Asthma Drugs: Risky LABA Medications

If you've been treating your long-term asthma with Advair, Foradil, Serevent, or Symbicort, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) wants you to know that your asthma symptoms may actually increase in severity.

If you've been hurt by one of the asthma drugs listed above, or by any other type of dangerous drug, our attorneys can help. Contact us today by calling 1-866-9-4EDGAR or by filling out our free online legal evaluation.

What Drugs Could Make Your Asthma Worse?

The FDA has identified that sameterol and formoterol, two of the generic drugs known as Long-Acting Beta-Agonists (LABAs), may exacerbate the severity of asthma symptoms when used in long-term treatment.

These risky drugs are contained in brand name medications such as Advair, Foradil, Serevent, and Symbicort. The FDA recommends that LABA-containing drugs should be used only for the shortest time possible by those who can't control their asthma with any alternatives.

The risks of LABAs were assessed by the FDA through the analysis of several studies where long-term LABA use led to pediatric and adult hospitalizations, as well as death.

If LABAs are Dangerous, why Haven't They Been Recalled?

Currently, the FDA feels that the benefits outweigh the risks for patients suffering from severe asthma. Though LABAs are not the preferred asthma medication, they may be useful in containing symptoms until another long-term treatment is prescribed.

The FDA has advised that the safest way to use LABAs is in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid - such as in the drugs Advair and Symbicort - rather than using a LABA-only treatment - such as Foradil and Serevent.

But no matter what form is being used, the FDA has stressed that LABAs must never be taken alone for the treatment of asthma.

Injured by a Risky Asthma Drug? Our Attorneys can Help

If you've been injured by an asthma medication containing a LABA drug, or by any other type of dangerous medication, our attorneys can help. Contact us by calling 1-866-9-4EDGAR or by filling out our free legal evaluation.