Aerosolized beta 2-agonists do not induce bronchial hyperreactivity in healthy adults.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether regular administration of beta 2-agonists could induce bronchial hyperreactivity in nonasthmatic volunteers.


METHODS
A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical trial of 2 weeks therapy with a 2-week washout period between each treatment period. Treatments were albuterol or matching placebo as 2 inhalations 4 times daily.


METHODS
Ten healthy, nonsmoking women 27-37 years old.


METHODS
General clinical research center of a tertiary care university hospital.


METHODS
Baseline spirometry and methacholine bronchoprovocation studies were performed immediately prior to, 12 hours following, and 1 and 2 weeks following each treatment period.


RESULTS
No change was detected in either baseline spirometry or methacholine responsiveness.


CONCLUSIONS
This suggests that if beta 2-agonists induce a rebound bronchial hyperreactivity, it is not the result of the production of tolerance or a direct effect on bronchial smooth muscle.
College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque 87131, USA.
H W
HW
Kelly
B C
BC
McWilliams
S
S
Murphy
D058666:Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists; D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D000336:Aerosols; D016535:Bronchial Hyperreactivity / Q000139:chemically induced*; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D005541:Forced Expiratory Volume / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016210:Methacholine Chloride; D011446:Prospective Studies
D058666:Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists; D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists; D000336:Aerosols; D016210:Methacholine Chloride