[Comparative study of the effects of regular or on-demand salbutamol inhalation in the treatment of asthma].
52 asthmatic patients aged 18 to 70 years took part in a double-blind crossover trial comparing the effects of regular treatment of asthma with inhaled salbutamol (400 micrograms qds) versus irregular treatment (400 micrograms prn), each prescribed for 4 weeks. There were no differences between the two schedules regarding intensity of clinical symptoms, morning and evening values of peak expiratory flow rates and spirometric measurements. The mean daily consumption of salbutamol was higher in the period of regular treatment (2148 +/- 548 micrograms) than in the period of free treatment (800 +/- 700 micrograms). Patients expressed an obvious preference for the period of regular treatment (26 vs 13). Salbutamol given prn or on a regular qds regimen was shown to be equally effective and safe in controlling the signs and symptoms of asthma. No tolerance or drug abuse was observed. In view of the patients' preference for regular treatment, this schedule is a safe alternative in cases where low-dose symptomatic treatment given prn fails to alleviate symptoms.
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000420:Albuterol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged
D000420:Albuterol
Etude comparée des effets de l'inhalation de salbutamol régulièrement ou à la demande dans le traitement de l'asthme.