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01-01-2002 | Leading Article

Potential of β₂-Adrenoceptor Agonists as Add-On Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis

Focus on Salbutamol (Albuterol)

Authors: Karim Makhlouf, Howard L. Weiner, Dr Samia J. Khoury

Published in: CNS Drugs | Issue 1/2002

Abstract

The β₂-adrenergic receptor agonist salbutamol (albuterol) has been used for many years in the treatment of bronchospasm in patients with asthma. In this patient group, salbutamol is a relatively safe and inexpensive drug, and is easy to administer.

Within the last few years, there has been increasing evidence that salbutamol might have immunomodulatory properties both in vitro and in vivo, in different animal models as well as in humans. This has led researchers to consider salbutamol as a potential therapy for several autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS).

In this article, we review the literature presenting such evidence, and discuss the possible mechanisms by which salbutamol influences the immune system. We conclude that salbutamol might be an interesting add-on therapy in patients with MS and that further research is warranted.

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Title: Potential of β2-Adrenoceptor Agonists as Add-On Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis
Focus on Salbutamol (Albuterol)
Authors: Karim Makhlouf
Howard L. Weiner
Dr Samia J. Khoury
Publication date: 01-01-2002
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: CNS Drugs / Issue 1/2002
Print ISSN: 1172-7047
Electronic ISSN: 1179-1934
DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/00023210-200216010-00001

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Potential of β₂-Adrenoceptor Agonists as Add-On Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis

Focus on Salbutamol (Albuterol)

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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