Pulmonary Function and Cardiovascular Responses to Exercise in Asthmatic Children Taking Oral Metaproterenol Versus Theophylline

Abstract

A significant number of perennial asthmatics obtaining a good response to bronchodilator therapy at rest may still experience exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB). Oral metaproterenol and oral theophylline were compared in a double-blind crossover controlled study in 20 asthmatic children to assess adequacy of control during physical activity. Daily diary scores, pulmonary function testing preexercise and postexercise as well as cardiovascular responses were determined. Group analysis of the results indicated no significant difference in pulmonary responses. However, individual analysis showed the superiority of theophylline in 20% of patients, whereas metaproterenol was superior in 30% of patients. No adverse cardiovascular responses were seen. In conclusion, although inhaled bronchodilator therapy seems most appropriate for EIB, oral medication does provide protection and may be an efficacious alternative when timing or proper use of inhaled medication is difficult.