Validation of Fenoterol to Study ß2-Adrenoceptor Function in the Rat Urinary Bladder.

Fenoterol is a ß2-adrenoceptor (AR)-selective agonist that is commonly used to investigate relaxation responses mediated by ß2-AR in smooth muscle preparations. Some data have questioned this because fenoterol had low potency in the rat urinary bladder when a muscarinic agonist was used as a pre-contraction agent and because some investigators proposed that fenoterol may act in part via ß3-AR. We designed the present study to investigate whether fenoterol is a proper pharmacological tool to study ß2-AR-mediated relaxation responses in the rat urinary bladder. Firstly, we have compared the effect of pre-contraction agents on fenoterol potency and found that fenoterol potency was about 1.5 log units greater against KCl than carbachol (pEC50 7.19 ± 0.66 and 5.62 ± 1.09 of KCl and of carbachol, respectively). To test the selectivity of fenoterol, we have determined the effects of the ß2-AR antagonist ICI 118,551 and the ß3-AR antagonist L 748,337 on relaxation responses to fenoterol. While 300 nM L 748,337 had little effect on the potency of fenoterol (pEC50 6.56 ± 0.25 and 6.33 ± 0.61 in the absence and presence of L 748,337, respectively), the relaxation curve for fenoterol was right-shifted in the presence 300 nM ICI 118,551 (pEC50 5.03 ± 0.18). Thus, we conclude that fenoterol is a proper pharmacological tool to assess ß2-AR-mediated responses in the rat urinary bladder and most likely in other smooth-muscle preparations containing multiple subtypes of the ß-AR.

Comparison efficacy of randomized nebulized magnesium sulfate and ipratropium bromide/fenoterol in children with moderate to severe asthma exacerbation.

BACKGROUND: In Thailand, nebulized ipratropium bromide/fenoterol, is commonly used in addition to salbutamol for severe asthma exacerbation. Recently, nebulized MgSO4 is indicated in GINA 2015 as an additive treatment for severe cases. However, there is limited data showed the efficacy of both drugs in childhood severe asthma. The purpose of this study to compare efficacy and safety of nebulized MgSO4 and ipratropium bromide/fenoterol in moderate to severe asthma attacks. METHODS: In this a prospective, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial study, we enrolled thirty-three children, age ranged from 2 to 15 years old, with PRAM score ≥ 4 (moderate to severe asthma exacerbation) despite 3 doses of nebulized salbutamol. Each patient was randomized to receive either three doses of nebulized MgSO4 or nebulized ipratropium bromide/fenoterol every 30 minutes. The PRAM score was measured at 0, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 240 minutes after the treatment. The adverse event and admission days were also evaluated. RESULTS: Sixteen patients received nebulized MgSO4 and seventeen received nebulized ipratropium bromide/fenoterol. Almost patients were classified as having moderate asthmatic attack. There were no statistically significant difference between the two study groups in almost baseline characteristic, PRAM score at 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 240 minutes. The hospital length of stay was also similar between two groups (p = 0.83). There were no serious events in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our double blind, randomized, controlled pilot study demonstrated non-inferior outcomes including clinical benefit and safety of nebulized MgSO4 and nebulized ipratropium bromide/fenoterol among Thai children with acute moderate asthmatic.

Myoclonus induced by salbutamol: A case report

Salbutamol is a ß2 adrenergic agonist widely prescribed in patients with obstructive and restrictive lung diseases. The main side effects associated with its use are tachycardia and tremor. Myoclonus is an involuntary, irregular, abrupt, brief and sudden muscular contraction, which can be generalized, focal or multifocal. We report the case of a 61-year-old patient presenting with myoclonus difficult to treat who showed improvement only after the definitive discontinuation of the ß2 adrenergic agonist. We describe the clinical findings, the interventions, and the outcomes related to the onset of myoclonus secondary to the use of salbutamol, as well as the possible genesis and importance of this adverse effect. We used the CARE guidelines to delineate the clinical case. Although myoclonus secondary to the use of different drugs has been described in the literature, as far as we know this is the fourth report of salbutamol-induced myoclonus to date.

Mioclonías inducidas por salbutamol / Myoclonus induced by salbutamol: A case report

Resumen El salbutamol es un agonista adrenérgico β2 ampliamente empleado en pacientes con enfermedades pulmonares obstructivas y restrictivas. Sus principales efectos secundarios son la taquicardia y el temblor. Las mioclonías son contracciones musculares involuntarias, irregulares, bruscas, breves y repentinas, y pueden ser generalizadas, focales o multifocales. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 61 años con mioclonías de difícil manejo que solo presentó mejoría tras la suspensión definitiva del agonista adrenérgico β2. Se describen los hallazgos clínicos, las intervenciones y el resultado en las mioclonías asociadas con el uso de salbutamol y se discuten la posible génesis y la importancia de este efecto adverso. Para documentar el caso, se siguieron las recomendaciones de las guías para el reporte de casos (CAse REport, CARE). Aunque en diversos estudios se han descrito mioclonías secundarias al uso de diferentes fármacos, hasta donde se sabe, este sería el cuarto reporte de un caso asociado específicamente con el uso del salbutamol.

Abstract Salbutamol is a β2 adrenergic agonist widely prescribed in patients with obstructive and restrictive lung diseases. The main side effects associated with its use are tachycardia and tremor. Myoclonus is an involuntary, irregular, abrupt, brief and sudden muscular contraction, which can be generalized, focal or multifocal. We report the case of a 61-year-old patient presenting with myoclonus difficult to treat who showed improvement only after the definitive discontinuation of the β2 adrenergic agonist. We describe the clinical findings, the interventions, and the outcomes related to the onset of myoclonus secondary to the use of salbutamol, as well as the possible genesis and importance of this adverse effect. We used the CARE guidelines to delineate the clinical case. Although myoclonus secondary to the use of different drugs has been described in the literature, as far as we know this is the fourth report of salbutamol-induced myoclonus to date.

Acute tocolysis for uterine tachysystole or suspected fetal distress.

BACKGROUND: Uterine tachysystole (more than 5 contractions per 10 minutes in 2 consecutive intervals) is common during labour, particularly with use of labour-stimulating agents. Tachysystole may reduce fetal oxygenation by interrupting maternal blood flow to the placenta during contractions. Reducing uterine contractions may improve placental blood flow, improving fetal oxygenation. This review aimed to evaluate the use of tocolytics to reduce or stop uterine contractions for improvement of the condition of the fetus in utero. This new review supersedes an earlier Cochrane Review on the same topic. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of the use of acute tocolysis during labour for uterine tachysystole or suspected fetal distress, or both, on fetal, maternal and neonatal outcomes. SEARCH METHODS: We searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (2 February 2018), and reference lists of retrieved studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating acute tocolysis for uterine tachysystole, intrapartum fetal distress, or both. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard methods expected by Cochrane. MAIN RESULTS: We included eight studies (734 women), conducted in hospital settings, predominantly in high-income countries (USA, Austria, Uruguay). Two trials were conducted in upper and lower middle-income countries (South Africa, Sri Lanka). The hospital facilities all had the capacity to perform caesarean section. Overall, the studies had a low risk of bias, except for methods to maintain blinding. All of the trials used a selective beta2 (ß2)-adrenergic agonist in one arm, however the drug used varied, as did the comparator. Limited information was available on maternal outcomes.Selective ß2-adrenergic agonist versus no tocolytic agent, whilst awaiting emergency deliveryThere were two stillbirths, both in the no tocolytic control group (risk ratio (RR) 0.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.01 to 4.55; 2 studies, 57 women; low-quality evidence). One had gross hydrocephalus and the second occurred with vaginal delivery after waiting 55 minutes for caesarean section. The decision for caesarean section delivery was an inclusion criterion in both studies so we could not assess this as an outcome under this comparison. Abnormal fetal heart trace is probably lower with tocolytic treatment (RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.95; 2 studies, 43 women; moderate-quality evidence). The effects on the number of babies with Apgar score below seven were uncertain (low-quality evidence).Intravenous (IV) atosiban versus IV hexoprenaline (1 study, 26 women) One infant in the hexoprenaline group required > 24 hours in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) following a forceps delivery (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.50; low-quality evidence). There were no fetal or neonatal mortalities and no Apgar scores below seven. There was one caesarean delivery in the IV hexoprenaline group (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.50; low-quality evidence), and one case of abnormal fetal heart score in the atosiban group (RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.13 to 67.51; very low-quality evidence).IV fenoterol bromhydrate versus emergency delivery (1 study, 390 women) No data were reported for perinatal death, severe morbidity or fetal or neonatal mortality. IV fenoterol probably increases the risk of caesarean delivery (RR 1.12, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.22; moderate-quality evidence). Fenoterol may have little or no effect on the risk of Apgar scores below seven (RR 1.28, 95% CI 0.35 to 4.68; low-quality evidence).IV hexoprenaline versus no tocolytic agent, whilst awaiting emergency delivery (1 study, 37 women) No data were reported for perinatal death or severe morbidity. There were two fetal deaths in the no tocolytic control group (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.01 to 4.55; low-quality evidence). The rate of caesarean delivery was not reported. There were two babies with Apgar scores below seven in the control group and none in the hexoprenaline group (RR 0.24, 95% CI 0.01 to 4.57; 35 women; low-quality evidence).Subcutaneous terbutaline versus IV magnesium sulphate (1 study, 46 women)No data were reported for perinatal death, severe morbidity or fetal or neonatal mortality. The decision for caesarean section was an inclusion criterion, so we could not assess this. The effects on abnormal fetal heart trace are uncertain (very low-quality evidence).Subcutaneous terbutaline with continuation of oxytocic infusion versus cessation of oxytocic infusion without tocolytic agent (1 study, 28 women) No data were reported for perinatal death, severe morbidity or fetal or neonatal mortality. There may be little or no difference in the rates of caesarean delivery in the subcutaneous terbutaline (8/15) and control groups (4/13) (RR 1.73, 95% CI 0.68 to 4.45; low-quality evidence). There were no cases of Apgar scores below seven or abnormal fetal heart trace.Subcutaneous terbutaline versus no tocolytic agent, whilst awaiting emergency delivery (1 study, 20 women) No data were reported for perinatal death or severe morbidity. There were no fetal or neonatal mortalities. The decision for caesarean section was an inclusion criterion, so we could not assess this. There were two babies with Apgar scores below seven in the control group and none in the terbutaline group (RR 0.17, 95% CI 0.01 to 3.08; low-quality evidence).IV terbutaline versus IV nitroglycerin (1 study, 110 women)No data were reported for perinatal death or severe morbidity or fetal or neonatal mortality. There may be little or no difference in the rates of caesarean delivery between the IV terbutaline (30/57) and control groups (29/53) (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.36; low-quality evidence). There were no cases of Apgar scores below seven. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence to determine the effects of tocolytics for uterine tachysystole or suspected fetal distress during labour. The clinical significance for some of the improvements in measures of fetal well-being with tocolytics is unclear. The sample sizes were too small to detect effects on neonatal morbidity, mortality or serious adverse effects. The majority of studies are from high-income countries in facilities with access to caesarean section, which may limit the generalisability of the results to lower-resource settings, or settings where caesarean section is not available.Further well-designed and adequately powered RCTs are required to evaluate clinically relevant indicators of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.

Tocolysis with the ß2-sympathomimetic fenoterol does not increase the occurrence of infantile hemangioma in preterm and term infants.

PURPOSE: ß2-sympathomimetics are used in obstetrics as tocolytic agents, despite a remarkable profile of side effects. Recently, the ß2-sympathomimetic tocolytic drug hexoprenaline was identified as an independent risk factor for the development of infantile hemangioma (IH) in preterm infants. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether this observed effect was applicable to other ß2-mimetic tocolytic agents like fenoterol. METHODS: Clinical prospectively collected data of all infants born between 2001 and 2012 and admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Heidelberg University Hospital and respective maternal data were merged. For the current retrospective cohort study, cases (IH) were matched to controls (no IH) at a ratio of 1:4, adjusting for birth weight, gestational age, gender and multiple gestations. Prenatal exposure to fenoterol and perinatal outcome were analyzed in the total cohort and in subgroups. RESULTS: N = 5070 infants were admitted to our neonatal department, out of which n = 172 infants with IH were identified and compared to n = 596 matched controls. Exposure to fenoterol was not associated with a higher rate of IH in the total matched population (OR 0.926, 95% CI 0.619-1.384) or in a subgroup of neonates < 32 weeks of gestation or with a birth weight < 1500 g (OR 1.127, 95% CI 0.709-1.791). In the total matched population, prenatal exposure to glucocorticoids was associated with a reduced occurrence of IH (OR 0.566, 95% CI 0.332-0.964) and neonates with IH showed a prolonged total hospital stay compared to controls (69 vs. 57 days, p = 0.0033). Known risk factors for IH were confirmed by our large study cohort and included female gender, low birth weight, preterm birth and multiple gestations (all p < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to fenoterol during pregnancy does not increase the occurrence of IH. Further studies are needed to explore differences in the risk profiles of different ß2-sympathomimetic tocolytic drugs.

Development and internal validation of a clinical prediction model for external cephalic version.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a prediction model for the chance of successful external cephalic version (ECV). STUDY DESIGN: This is a secondary analysis of a multicenter, open-label randomized controlled trial that assessed the effectiveness of atosiban compared to fenoterol as uterine relaxant during ECV in women with a singleton fetus in breech presentation with a gestational age of 36 weeks or more. Potential predictors included maternal, pregnancy, fetal, and treatment characteristics and were recorded in all participants. Multivariable logistic regression analysis with a stepwise backward selection procedure was used to construct a prediction model for the occurrence of successful ECV. Model performance was assessed using calibration and discrimination. RESULTS: We included a total of 818 women with an overall ECV success rate of 37%. Ten predictive factors were identified with the stepwise selection procedure to be associated with a successful ECV: fenoterol as uterine relaxant, nulliparity, Caucasian ethnicity, gestational age at ECV, Amniotic Fluid Index, type of breech presentation, placental location, breech engagement, possibility to palpate the head and relaxation of the uterus. Our model showed good calibration and a good discriminative ability with a c-statistic of 0.78 (95% CI 0.75 to 0.81). CONCLUSION: Prediction of success of ECV seems feasible with a model showing good performance. This can be used in clinical practice after external validation.

Atosiban versus fenoterol as a uterine relaxant for external cephalic version: randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE:  To compare the effectiveness of the oxytocin receptor antagonist atosiban with the beta mimetic fenoterol as uterine relaxants in women undergoing external cephalic version (ECV) for breech presentation. DESIGN:  Multicentre, open label, randomised controlled trial. SETTING:  Eight hospitals in the Netherlands, August 2009 to May 2014. PARTICIPANTS:  830 women with a singleton fetus in breech presentation and a gestational age of more than 34 weeks were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to either 6.75 mg atosiban (n=416) or 40 µg fenoterol (n=414) intravenously for uterine relaxation before ECV. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:  The primary outcome measures were a fetus in cephalic position 30 minutes after the procedure and cephalic presentation at delivery. Secondary outcome measures were mode of delivery, incidence of fetal and maternal complications, and drug related adverse events. All analyses were done on an intention-to-treat basis. RESULTS:  Cephalic position 30 minutes after ECV occurred significantly less in the atosiban group than in the fenoterol group (34% v 40%, relative risk 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.55 to 0.93). Presentation at birth was cephalic in 35% (n=139) of the atosiban group and 40% (n=166) of the fenoterol group (0.86, 0.72 to 1.03), and caesarean delivery was performed in 60% (n=240) of women in the atosiban group and 55% (n=218) in the fenoterol group (1.09, 0.96 to 1.20). No significant differences were found in neonatal outcomes or drug related adverse events. CONCLUSIONS:  In women undergoing ECV for breech presentation, uterine relaxation with fenoterol increases the rate of cephalic presentation 30 minutes after the procedure. No statistically significant difference was found for cephalic presentation at delivery. TRIAL REGISTRATION:  Dutch Trial Register, NTR 1877.

Have we achieved progress in tocolytic treatment?--results of a retrospective cohort study in a tertiary university hospital.

OBJECTIVES: Beta-agonists play an important role in tocolytic treatment. In light of recent changes in the Polish medical care system, we decided to assess the effectiveness of oral continuous treatment (in 2012) and compare it with a 3-day intravenous administration of fenoterol (in 2013). The aim of our study was to contrast cost and effectiveness of fenoterol therapy in pregnant women at risk of preterm labor during two consecutive years: 2012 - when fenoterol had been widely used (group A), and 2013 when its extensive use had been withdrawn (group B). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of 129 pregnant women: 76 treated with intravenous fenoterol, followed by continuous oral administration (November 2012; group A), and 53 treated with intravenous fenoterol only for 48-72 hours (November 2013; group B). RESULTS: Perinatal outcomes (based on the Apgar score and neonatal weight) were comparable in both groups. Continuous oral application of fenoterol resulted in earlier gestational age at delivery and lower cost of hospitalization among women from group A as compared to group B. Regardless, the difference was not statistically significant (37 hbd vs. 35 hbd, p = 0.626; 4334,700PLN vs. 5232,470PLN, p = 0.533). CONCLUSIONS: A 3-day intravenous application of fenoterol is as effective as oral continuous therapy and is characterized by reduced risk of negative side effects.

Efectividad del tratamiento de la amenaza de parto pretérmimo con progesterona natural micronizada / Effectiveness of treatment of threatened labor preterm micronized natural progesterone

Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad de la progesterona natural micronizada administrada vía oral y del fenoterol administrado vía endovenosa, en el tratamiento de las pacientes con diagnóstico de amenaza de parto pretérmino. Métodos: Estudio experimental tipo ensayo terapéutico en pacientes que acudieron al Hospital Universitario de Caracas. Resultados: 15 pacientes del grupo estudio con progesterona presentaron resultados satisfactorios (X² = 155,837, df = 18); del grupo control, 13 pacientes con resultados satisfactorios (X² = 133,093, df = 18). La efectividad absoluta en el grupo de estudio fue de 0,68 contra 0,59 del grupo control (X² = 0,393; df = 1; P < 0,531). Conclusiones: Los tratamientos con progesterona natural micronizada y fenoterol demostraron ser inhibitorios de la dinámica uterina, a partir de la segunda hora de iniciado el tratamiento, evitando su progreso hacia trabajo de parto en un 90 %. La progesterona natural micronizada es efectiva en el tratamiento de la amenaza de parto pretérmino y se debe considerar su uso como alternativa terapéutica.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of micronized natural progesterone administered orally and intravenously administered fenoterol in the treatment of patients with a diagnosis of preterm labor. Method: The type of therapeutic trial in patients attended at the Hospital Universitario de Caracas. Results: 15 patients in the progesterone study showed satisfactory results (X² = 155.837 df = 18); the control group, 13 patients with satisfactory results (X² = 133.093 df = 18). The absolute effectiveness in the study group was 0.68 against 0.59 in the control group (X² = 0.393 df = 1, P < 0.531). Conclusions: Treatment with micronized natural progesterone and fenoterol proved inhibitory uterine dynamics from the second hour of starting treatment preventing its progress toward labor by 90 %. The micronized natural progesterone is effective in the treatment of preterm labor and should be considered as an alternative therapeutic use.

Beta2-adrenergic agonist use and the risk of multiple sclerosis: a total population-based case-control study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the use of fenoterol, a beta2-adrenergic agonist, was associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) risk by conducting a total population-based case-control study in Taiwan. METHODS: A total of 578 patients with newly diagnosed MS who had a severely disabling disease (SDD) certificate between January 1, 2002 and December 1, 2008 comprised the case group. These cases were compared with 2890 gender-, age-, residence-, and insurance premium-matched controls. Fenoterol use was analyzed using a conditional logistic regression model that controlled for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), salbutamol and steroid use. RESULTS: Compared with the group of people who did not use fenoterol, the adjusted odds ratios were 0.67 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.48-0.93, p = 0.016) for the group prescribed fenoterol below 2.25 cumulative defined daily dose (cDDD) and 0.49 (95% CI = 0.33-0.71, p < 0.001) for the group with a cumulative fenoterol use of more than 2.25 cDDD. The dose-response relationship was similar within the non-asthma patients. The associations were similar between males and females, but differences between age groups were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that fenoterol use may reduce the risk of MS.

Betamimetics for inhibiting preterm labour.

BACKGROUND: Preterm birth is a major contributor to perinatal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Tocolytic agents are drugs used to inhibit uterine contractions. Betamimetics are tocolytic agents that have been widely used, especially in resource-poor countries. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of betamimetics given to women with preterm labour. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (31 December 2013) and reference lists of retrieved studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials of betamimetics, administered by any route or any dose, in the treatment of women in preterm labour where betamimetics were compared with other betamimetics, placebo or no treatment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors assessed risk of bias and extracted the data independently. MAIN RESULTS: Twenty-eight trials were assessed as eligible for inclusion in the review, but eight did not report any outcome data relevant to the review. Results are based on the 20 trials that contributed data.Twelve trials, involving 1367 women, compared betamimetics with placebo. Betamimetics decreased the number of women in preterm labour giving birth within 48 hours (average risk ratio (RR) 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53 to 0.88, 10 trials, 1209 women). There was a decrease in the number of births within seven days (average RR 0.80; 95% CI 0.65 to 0.98, five trials, 911 women) but there was no evidence of a reduction in preterm birth (before 37 weeks' gestation) (RR 0.95; 95% CI 0.88 to 1.03, 10 trials, 1212 women). No benefit was demonstrated for betamimetics for perinatal death (RR 0.84; 95% CI 0.46 to 1.55, 11 trials, 1332 infants), or neonatal death (RR 0.90; 95% CI 0.27 to 3.00, six trials, 1174 infants). No significant effect was demonstrated for respiratory distress syndrome (RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.71 to 1.08, eight trials, 1239 infants). A few trials reported on cerebral palsy, infant death and necrotising enterocolitis; no significant differences between groups were identified for any of these outcomes. Betamimetics were significantly associated with the following outcomes: withdrawal from treatment due to adverse effects; maternal chest pain; dyspnoea; palpitation; tremor; headaches; hypokalaemia; hyperglycaemia; nausea or vomiting; nasal stuffiness; and fetal tachycardia.Nine trials compared different types of betamimetics. Other betamimetics were compared with ritodrine in five trials (n = 948). Other comparisons were examined in single trials: hexoprenaline compared with salbutamol (n = 140), slow versus moderate release salbutamol (n = 52) and salbutamol compared with terbutaline (n = 200). Trials were small, varied, and of insufficient quality to delineate any consistent patterns of effect. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Betamimetics help to delay birth, which may give time to allow women to be transferred to tertiary care or to complete a course of antenatal corticosteroids. However, multiple adverse effects must be considered. The data are too few to support the use of any particular betamimetic.

Tocolysis for preterm labor: expert opinion.

Tocolysis is an important treatment in the improvement of outcome in preterm labor and preterm birth, provided that its use follows clear evidence-based recommendations. In this expert opinion, the most recent evidence about efficacy and side effects of different tocolytics is being reviewed and evidence-based recommendation about diagnosis and treatment of preterm labor is given. Further aspects such as progesterone administration or antibiotic treatment for the prevention of preterm birth are included. Our review demonstrates that an individualized choice of different tocolytics and additional treatments is necessary to improve short- and long-term neonatal outcome in preterm labor and preterm birth.

Nifedipine versus fenoterol in the management of preterm labor: a randomized, multicenter clinical study.

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy of nifedipine and fenoterol in the management of threatened preterm labor (TPL). METHODS: A randomized and multicenter study assessing the tocolytic effect of nifedipine versus fenoterol in patients admitted to the participating maternity units with a diagnosis of TPL and a cost-savings study for economic assessment. For a power of 80% and an α error equal to 0.05, 132 consecutive patients were recruited during the study period; 66 patients were assigned to each group. A χ(2) analysis and a mean differences test were performed according to variable types and survival curves per intention-to-treat. RESULTS: Demographics were similar in both groups. The latency period was similar in both groups (26.7 vs. 25.6; p = 0.3). There were no differences in the results obtained. Nifedipine failed more frequently to obtain tocolysis when used as a first-line agent (80 vs. 90%, p = 0.0001). The group treated with fenoterol showed more drug adverse events (57.8 vs. 19.0%, p = 0.0001). The economic assessment did not evidence a significant difference in terms of cost savings between groups treated with either drug. CONCLUSION: The present study failed to demonstrate either clinical or economic superiority of any of the two drugs used in TPL management. The highest failure percentage of nifedipine when used as a first-line agent should encourage further research.

Bronchodilator effect of Ipraterol on methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction in asthmatic patients.

BACKGROUND: The addition of ipratropium, a synthetic cholinergic antagonist, to beta2-agonist therapy provides an additive improvement in adult with acute severe asthma and COPD because of increased vagal tone in the airways. We asked whether ipratropium in combination with fenoterol (Ipraterol) improved pulmonary function in comparison with original Berodual. MATERIAL AND METHOD: In order to determine the effects of nebulized a single dose of Ipraterol, the study was conducted in a double-blind, randomized and crossover manner by comparing the effect of nebulized a single dose of Berodual on methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction. The study consisted of an 1-week run-in phase and two study visits separated by a washout period of 7 days. PATIENTS: We studied 20 patients who ranged from 18 to 80 years of age and had mild to moderate persistent asthma. RESULTS: Nebulized Ipraterol provided a rapid onset of bronchodilation effect similar to nebulized Berodual within 5 minutes by significantly increasing FEV, from 1.19 L to 1.73 L (p < 0.001) and from 1.19 to 1.69 L (p = 0.0001), respectively. This effect of Ipraterol lasted as long (up to 6 hours) and was similar to that of Berodual. The absolute FEV1 values at 360 min after Ipraterol treatment was still higher than the baseline values. We also found that there were no significant differences in the degree of improvement in FEV1 and hypokalemia following treatment with Ipraterol and Berodual. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that nebulized Ipraterol offers a statistically significant improvement in pulmonary function without significant systemic absorption causing hypokalemia, with the improvement being comparable to that achieved with nebulized Berodual.

Five-day course of budesonide inhalation suspension is as effective as oral prednisolone in the treatment of mild to severe acute asthma exacerbations in adults.

BACKGROUND: Limited evidence is available on the use of budesonide inhalation suspension (BIS) for the treatment of mild to severe acute asthma exacerbations (AAE) in adults in an inpatient setting. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a five-day course of BIS compared with oral prednisolone (OP) in the management of adults with AAE. METHODS: A retrospective study examined the response of 28 patients hospitalized with mild to severe acute asthma exacerbation from January 2003 to December 2003. These patients, who were steroid free ≥ 1 yr, were administered a five-day course of BIS (2 × 2 mg bid) or OP (2 × 15 mg bid). PEF, FEV(1) and asthma symptom scores were recorded daily. RESULTS: The BIS (n = 13) and OP (n = 15) treatment groups were comparable at baseline for demographic characteristics and prebronchodilator (fenoterol) FEV(1) of 52.4% predicted normal value and 54.6% predicted normal value, respectively. Mean change of morning PEF was 152 L/min during BIS treatment and 130 L/min for OP treatment; the mean changes of morning forced expiratory volumes in 1 s (FEV(1)) were 1.0 and 0.7 L, respectively. The mean change in daytime symptom scores were -1.6 and -1.3 in the BIS and the OP groups, respectively. Improvements in PEF, FEV(1) and daytime symptom scores were significantly different between baseline and after treatment in each treatment group (p < 0.05). However, improvements in both BIS and OP groups were similar. CONCLUSION: Budesonide inhalation suspension may be an alternative treatment of acute asthma exacerbation in adults who are at risk for systemic corticosteroids.

The economic impact of severe asthma to low-income families.

BACKGROUND: To estimate the direct and indirect costs of severe asthma and the economic impact of its management to low-income families in Salvador, Brazil. METHODS: One hundred and ninety-seven patients with severe asthma and referred to a state-funded asthma center providing free treatment were evaluated. At registration, they were asked about family cost-events in the previous year and had a baseline assessment of lung function, symptoms and quality of life. During the subsequent year, they were reassessed prospectively. RESULTS: One hundred-eighty patients concluded a 12-month follow-up. Eighty-four percent were female patients, and the median family income was US$ 2955/year. Forty-seven percent of family members had lost their jobs because of asthma. Total cost of asthma management took 29% of family income. After proper treatment, asthma control scores improved by 50% and quality of life by 74%. The income of the families increased by US$ 711/year, as their members went back to work. The total cost of asthma to the families was reduced by a median US$ 789/family/year. Consequently, an annual surplus of US$ 1500/family became available. CONCLUSIONS: Family costs of severe asthma consumed over one-fourth of the family income of the underprivileged population in a middle-income country. Adequate management brings major economic benefit to individuals and families.

Bronchodilator response in residual volume in irreversible airway obstruction.

BACKGROUND: Although airway obstruction, as defined by improvement of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and/or forced vital capacity (FVC), is irreversible in patients with COPD, they clearly seem to benefit from treatment with inhaled bronchodilators. AIMS: To assess the response pattern of residual volume (RV) compared to FEV1 after bronchodilation in patients with reversible and irreversible airway obstruction. METHODS: Changes in static lung volumes were compared with improvement in dynamic lung volumes in 396 consecutive patients undergoing reversibility testing with repeat bodyplethysmography. Reversibility was defined as improvement of FEV1 >200 ml and >12% after inhalation of fenoterol hydrobromide. RESULTS: Irreversibility was found in 297 out of 396 patients with airway obstruction. Except for total lung capacity (TLC), all parameters (residual volume [RV], vital capacity [VC], forced inspiratory vital capacity [IVC], forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV1] and the FEV1/VC ratio) showed statistically significant changes after bronchodilation in 396 patients. The multiple linear regression model adjusted for age, sex and BMI showed a non-linear relationship between DeltaFEV1 or DeltaVC compared to DeltaRV after bronchodilation. If the increase in DeltaFEV1 is lower than 0.1 L, DeltaRV remains constant. However, if the increase in DeltaFEV1 is more than 0.1 L, DeltaRV decreases too. The same is found at an increase in VC of 0.3 L. CONCLUSION: In summary, in patients with irreversible airway obstruction DeltaRV cannot be predicted by DeltaFEV1 or DeltaVC after bronchodilation. Therefore, spirometric assessment should be complemented by bodyplethysmography.

Cost-effectiveness of ritodrine and fenoterol for treatment of preterm labor in a low-middle-income country: a case study.

OBJECTIVES: In countries with high income, tocolytic therapy with beta-mimetic agents is a cost-effective strategy compared to placebo. In our study, the cost-effectiveness of two beta-mimetic agents, ritodrine and fenoterol, used in the management of preterm labor was compared in the setting of a low-middle-income transitional country, Serbia & Montenegro. METHODS: This case study was conducted at the Gynecology-Obstetrics Clinic, Clinical Center "Kragujevac," in Kragujevac, Serbia & Montenegro, between October 2004 and January 2006. In total, 235 pregnant patients with threatened preterm labor were enrolled, but 35 were lost to follow-up. Of the remaining 200 patients, 85 were given ritodrine, and 115 fenoterol. The perspective of Republic Institute for Health Insurance in Serbia was taken into account. Only direct costs were calculated; primary outcomes of the study were length of pregnancy (in weeks), time passed from the onset of uterine contractions to delivery (in weeks), and score on modified Flanagan's quality-of-life scale for chronic diseases, measured after discharge from hospital. RESULTS: Prolongation of pregnancy was significantly longer in the fenoterol group (12.7 +/- 8.4 weeks) than in the ritodrine group (11.6 +/- 7.1 weeks). The mean duration of hospitalization was shorter in the fenoterol group (11.9 +/- 8.8 days) than in the ritodrine group (14.9 +/- 11.3 days). The treatment with fenoterol was less costly and more cost-effective than the treatment with ritodrine, but the difference in cost-effectiveness was not statistically significant. The cost of treatment per gained week of pregnancy prolongation was 3345.51 +/- 7668.04 CSD in the fenoterol group, and 4181.96 +/- 12,069.83 CSD in the ritodrine group. CONCLUSIONS: The observed differences in treatment costs and duration of hospitalization per patient did not translate into significant differences in cost-effectiveness ratios, because of low costs of hospitalization and human labor in Serbian health system. Nevertheless, fenoterol treatment still has a tendency to be more cost-effective, and its lower acquisition cost is an advantage to this treatment option.