A federal advisory panel concluded that two drugs, Serevent and Foradil, should be banned for use in the treatment of asthma, according to Reuters.
Studies have shown that when Serevent and Foradil are used without a steroid, the drugs can trigger more severe, life-threatening asthma attacks.
The panel of safety experts also recommended that two other asthma drugs, Advair and Symbicort, continue to be used on adults and children. However, the votes were far from unanimous on the question of use by children.
Advair is approved for children ages four and older. The advisory panel voted 13-11 with three abstentions to allow children in the youngest age group to use Advair.
Symbicort is approved for children ages 12 and older. The advisory panel voted 20-5 with two abstentions to allow children that age to use Symbicort.
The four asthma medications contain a drug known as long-acting beta agonist. The drug safety questions were raised after a study showed that Serevent could worsen asthma and even cause death, National Public Radio reports.
Adverse reactions to prescription drugs cause more injuries and deaths in the United States than illegal drugs. If you have suffered medical complications from a prescription medicine or over-the-counter drug, an attorney with experience can advise you on your right to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
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