The effect of regular salbutamol on lung function and bronchial hyperresponsiveness in normal subjects and nonasthmatic atopic subjects with allergic rhinitis.
BACKGROUND
The effects of regular inhaled beta-agonist treatment on lung function remain a controversial issue. In an earlier study, the administration of regular inhaled salbutamol resulted in negative changes in FEV1 not only in asthmatics, but also in nonasthmatic atopic subjects.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to confirm these findings and also to examine whether regular inhaled salbutamol would increase bronchial hyperresponsiveness in atopic or normal individuals.


METHODS
The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover investigation.


METHODS
There were two groups: 10 normal healthy subjects (group A) and nine nonasthmatic atopic subjects (group B).


METHODS
Subjects received inhaled salbutamol or identical placebo for periods of 6 weeks, the dose being increased in stepwise fashion at 2-week intervals.


METHODS
Changes in lung function were assessed by measuring spirometric values, airways conductance, and changes in complete and partial expiratory flow volume curves. Changes in these parameters following a methacholine challenge were used to assess bronchial hyperresponsiveness.


RESULTS
No statistically significant differences in lung function or bronchial hyperresponsiveness were noted to occur as the result of treatment in either group.


CONCLUSIONS
Our results do not support the view that regular inhaled salbutamol in normal or atopic subjects without asthma causes adverse changes in the airways.
Boothman-Burrell
D
D
Department of Respiratory Medicine, University of Otago Medical School, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Jones
D
D
Herbison
G P
GP
Taylor
D R
DR
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000633:toxicity; D000420:Albuterol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000633:toxicity; D016535:Bronchial Hyperreactivity / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D001985:Bronchial Provocation Tests; D016084:Bronchoconstriction / Q000187:drug effects; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D006801:Humans; D012221:Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013147:Spirometry; D013997:Time Factors
D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists; D000420:Albuterol