Beta Agonists

Beta agonists are medications commonly used to treat “reactive airway disease,” or asthma. These medications stimulate the beta-2 receptors, which are found in the lungs in very small airways called alveoli. The beta-2 receptors are present in the muscles that surround the alveoli. When these muscles contract, the alveoli constrict, and less air moves through. This process is called bronchoconstriction. These alveoli have very small cross-sectional space so that even a mild constriction can significantly alter the airflow. This is what happens in an asthma exacerbation. The beta ...