The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has announced the non – specific β-agonist orciprenaline (Alupent) syrup is to be withdrawn from the UK market over the coming year.

Analysis of safety data has shown there is no proven benefit of the drug in the treatment therapy of asthmatic patients requiring a liquid β-agonist. Due to the non-selective properties of the drug there is an increased risk of developing cardiac side effects e.g. palpitations and tachycardia. In light of this evidence it is recommended a more selective β-agonist such as salbutamol or terbutaline is prescribed. The Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) has advised there are no patient groups for whom a switch to a more selective β-agonist would not be suitable.

Patients currently prescribed orciprenaline syrup (Alupent) should be referred to their doctor for switching to a more selective short acting β2 – agonist i.e. salbutamol or terbutaline.