Inhibition of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction with reproterol, a new beta agonist-xanthine derivative

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of a new bronchodilator, reproterol with standard bronchodilators terbutaline and theophylline in patients with allergic asthma. Efficacy was determined by measuring the initial bronchodilating effect and the inhibition of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction. In a double-blind, randomized, controlled study with single doses of medication, patients were given reproterol (20 mg and 30 mg), anhydrous theophylline (200 mg), terbutaline (5 mg) and placebo prior to challenge with antigen. Prior to administration of antigen both reproterol and terbutaline had measurable bronchodilating effect when compared to placebo. The bronchodilating effect of theophylline was less than placebo. In comparison to placebo both doses of reproterol and terbutaline significantly attenuated the response to antigen challenge whereas the effect of theophylline was negligible.