Asthma drug debate. Conceptual illustration of the medical debate surrounding a class of drugs known as long-acting beta2-adrenoceptor agonists (LABAs). Figures surround a model of a LABA drug molecule inside a sphere. LABAs, which include salmeterol, formoterol and bambuterol, are usually prescribed to treat symptoms of persistent asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). LABAs are designed to reduce the need for shorter-acting drugs. However there is concern regarding their use. Although they relieve asthma symptoms they may also increase the small risk of fatal attacks, possibly by promoting bronchial inflammation and sensitivity without warning.