Aerosolized Beta 2 -Agonists Do Not Induce Bronchial Hyperreactivity in Healthy Adults

Abstract

Objective:

To determine whether regular administration of beta₂ agonists could induce bronchial hyperreactivity in nonasthmatic volunteers.

Design:

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.

Subjects:

Ten healthy, nonsmoking women 27—37 years old.

Setting:

General clinical research center of a tertiary care university hospital.

Main Outcome Measures:

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 beta₂-agonists induce a rebound bronchial hyperreactivity, it is not the result of the production of tolerance or a direct effect on bronchial smooth muscle.