ATC Group: R03CC Selective beta-2-adrenoreceptor agonists

Arformoterol, the (R,R)-enantiomer of formoterol, is a selective long-acting beta₂-adrenergic receptor agonist (beta₂-agonist) that has two-fold greater potency than racemic formoterol (which contains both the (S,S) and (R,R)-enantiomers). The (S,S)-enantiomer is about 1,000-fold less potent as a beta₂-agonist than the (R,R)-enantiomer. The pharmacologic effects of beta₂-adrenoceptor agonist drugs, including arformoterol, are at least in part attributable to stimulation of intracellular adenyl cyclase.

Bambuterol is an active precursor of the selective β₂-adrenergic agonist terbutaline. Bambuterol is the bis-N,N-dimethyl-carbamate of terbutaline. Bambuterol is a remarkably selective and potent inhibitor of cholinesterase. Bambuterol is indicated for the management of asthma, bronchospasm and/or reversible airways obstruction.

Clenbuterol is a direct-acting β2 sympathomimetic agent for the treatment of chronic obstructive airway diseases.

Procaterol is an intermediate-acting β2 adrenoreceptor agonist used for the treatment of dyspnea caused by bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pulmonary emphysema.

Salbutamol is a selective β₂-agonist providing short-acting (4-6 hour) bronchodilation with a fast onset (within 5 minutes) in reversible airways obstruction. At therapeutic doses it acts on the β₂-adrenoceptors of bronchial muscle. Salbutamol is administered for the symptomatic relief of bronchospasm associated with chronic or acute asthma, bronchitis or other obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Terbutaline is a selective beta₂-adrenoceptor agonist, thus producing relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, inhibition of the release of endogenous spasmogens, inhibitions of oedema caused by endogenous mediators, increased mucociliary clearance and relaxation of the uterine muscle.