Inhaled steroids in patients with bronchiectasis.
The effect of inhaled beclomethasone diproprionate (1500 micrograms day-1) on symptoms, pulmonary function and sputum production was examined in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study in 20 patients with bronchiectasis. An 18% reduction in daily sputum production (P less than 0.003) was observed on treatment with inhaled steroid compared to placebo. A small, significant, improvement in morning peak expiratory flow rate (P less than 0.03) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (P less than 0.03) was seen but the absolute changes are unlikely to be of clinical importance. Symptom scores for cough improved significantly (P less than 0.02). Inhaled steroids may have a role in the management of bronchiectasis by reducing cough and sputum production.
Elborn
J S
JS
Respiratory Medicine Unit, Belfast City Hospital, Northern Ireland, U.K.
Johnston
B
B
Allen
F
F
Clarke
J
J
McGarry
J
J
Varghese
G
G
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001507:Beclomethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001987:Bronchiectasis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D005541:Forced Expiratory Volume / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010366:Peak Expiratory Flow Rate / Q000502:physiology
D001507:Beclomethasone