2. Duration of Therapy

Administration of short-acting, nebulized beta2-adrenergic bronchodilators may be repeated indefinitely for acute asthma exacerbations, as asthma is a chronic, lifelong disease^1-5. However, administering short-acting, nebulized beta2-adrenergic agents for longer than 48 hours with each exacerbation is indicative of worsening asthma control^12,15. Utilization of large quantities of short-acting beta2-adrenergic nebulizer solutions within a 90-day time period is not recommended and will be reviewed.

Ipratropium, long-acting, nebulized beta2-adrenergic bronchodilators, and combination therapy with ipratropium/racemic albuterol are indicated for the management of COPD, a chronic, lifelong disease, and may be continued indefinitely under accepted guidelines¹⁶.