Evaluation of the efficacy of the combination of fenoterol and ipratropium bromide (Duovent) in asthmatic subjects

Abstract

The efficacy of the combination of fenoterol and ipratropium bromide (Duovent) versus placebo was evaluated in 20 asthmatic subjects. A double-blind crossover design was used during 2-day experimental evaluation: on the 1st day all patients were given a double metered dose of each preparation (Duovent and placebo) by an inhaler, with a 30-min interval; on the 2nd day the sequence of administration was reversed. The functional parameters were evaluated before administrations and at 30, 60 and 90 min after the first administration. The investigation showed that Duovent had a noticeable bronchodilating activity at 30 min, further increasing at 60 and 90 min, without the occurrence of side-effects.