Eur Respir J. 1998 Feb
Nielsen KG, Auk IL, Bojsen K, Ifversen M, Klug B, Bisgaard H.
Abstract
In vitro studies with the Diskus inhaler at low and high flow rates show consistent doses of drug as fine particles or = 30 L x min(-1) through the device, while 26% performed > or = 90 L x min(-1). Eighteen children aged 8-15 yrs with exercise induced asthma inhaled placebo or salmeterol 50 microg at either 30 L x min(-1) or 90 L x min(-1). Exercise challenges were carried out 1 h and 12 h after dosing. The maximum percentage fall in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEVI) after exercise 12 h after treatment was significantly less after salmeterol at either flow rates as compared to placebo. There was no significant difference in the protection from salmeterol on the day of low-flow inhalation versus the day of high-flow inhalation. Consistent in vitro fine particle dosing from the Diskus inhaler translates into a consistent clinical effect at low and high flow rates in children.
PMID: 9551737
