Which medication must a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) be paired with for asthma management?

Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) are bronchodilators that work by relaxing the muscles of the airways, making it easier to breathe. However, they are typically used as part of a comprehensive asthma management strategy due to concerns regarding potential risks, such as increased asthma-related deaths when used alone without anti-inflammatory therapy.

To ensure effective asthma control and reduce the risk of exacerbation, LABAs should always be used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids. Corticosteroids help to control inflammation in the airways, which is a critical aspect of asthma management. This combination allows for both the immediate relief of bronchoconstriction through the LABA and the long-term control of inflammation with the corticosteroid, thereby addressing the underlying pathophysiology of asthma.

This approach also aligns with national guidelines for asthma management, which advocate for the concurrent use of these medications to optimize patient outcomes and safety. Therefore, combining a LABA with a corticosteroid is essential in managing asthma effectively.