The US government is taking steps to curb use of some long-acting asthma drugs used by millions, issuing safety restrictions to lower a life-threatening risk that asthma could worsen suddenly.
Read more: http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL1111/S00136/are-you-taking-these-asthma-drugs.htm
Comment
There are numerous studies highlighting the dangers of LABAs both on their own and in combination with inhaled corticosteroids. Your Doctor can best assess the suitability of LABAs in helping control your asthma. However, patients should also be made aware of non-pharmacological options with proven efficacy. Eight published studies, including two in New Zealand, have demonstrated the effectiveness of the Buteyko Method in helping control asthma and reduce the need for medication.
The British Guideline on the Management of Asthma 2008 granted permission for British health professionals to recommend the Buteyko Method. No other complementary therapy has ever been endorsed by this strict body for the treatment of asthma. Yet little has been publicised about this method by asthma advocacy bodies in NZ.
Asthma is a breathing disorder and access to breathing retraining programmes such as Buteyko are vital if we are to reduce the morbidity and mortality from beta agonist use here in New Zealand and worldwide.
Note on medications:
Buteyko Breathing Clinic practitioners work with your doctor to help you achieve the best possible control of your asthma. We advise our clients to consult their doctor before making any changes to prescribed medication.
