What class of drugs do long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs) belong to?

Long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs) specifically belong to the class of drugs known as long-acting beta-2 agonists. These medications are designed to provide prolonged bronchodilation in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). LABAs work by stimulating the beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle, leading to relaxation and widening of the airways, which helps alleviate breathing difficulties.

This class of drugs is distinct from short-acting beta-agonists, which are used for quick relief of acute asthma symptoms but do not provide long-term control. Similarly, the other options mention classes such as short-acting muscarinic antagonists and long-acting anticholinergics, which involve different mechanisms of action and are not part of the beta-agonist classification. Therefore, recognizing LABAs as a separate and specific class highlights their unique therapeutic role in managing chronic respiratory conditions.