Abstract
BACKGROUND: In this study, we compared aerosol deposition from the Circulaire Nebulizer System (CS) to deposition from a conventional disposable nebulizer in COPD patients and assessed the physiologic response to bronchodilator aerosol with these devices. EVALUATION METHODS & PATIENT SELECTION: In a prospective randomized, crossover-controlled study of 10 patients with COPD by history and objective testing, we compared the CS to a conventional nebulizer by quantitative radioaerosol scanning, pulmonary function testing, and pulse monitoring. RESULTS: The CS performed better in terms of reduction of side effects (total obliteration of mean pulse increase), extrapulmonary body deposition (5-fold reduction), and environmental contamination (3-fold reduction). Equal bronchodilatation and pulmonary deposition were achieved. Compared to normal subjects, COPD patients receive less lung dose of bronchodilator aerosol with either device. CONCLUSIONS: For usual bronchodilator treatment, the CS provides equal therapeutic effect with relative freedom from side effects and less exposure for caregivers. [Respir Care 1996;41(11):1006-1008]
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