A new spacer device for administration of inhaled salbutamol: use in elderly asthmatics.

This randomized, parallel-group study compared the use of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) equipped with a new spacer device (Jet spacer) with that of a standard actuator in the administration of salbutamol (two puffs, 100 micrograms four times daily) to 36 elderly patients with moderate asthma and poor inhalation technique. After a 1-week run-in period, patients entered the 1-week study. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were measured at screening (both groups using the standard actuator) before and 30, 60, 120, and 240 minutes after administration; these measurements were repeated at the start and end of treatment (patients using the spacer or standard actuator). Ratings of efficacy and tolerability by investigators and of acceptability by patients were recorded at the end of treatment. Increases from baseline (from 0 to 240 minutes) in FEV1 and PEFR were comparable in the two groups at screening visit but proved higher (significantly for FEV1: P < .01) in the Jet group than in the standard-actuator group after both the first and last doses of the 7-day treatment period. the Jet group reported greater acceptability than the standard-actuator group. One patient in each group had tremors. The new spacer device is thus a valid alternative to the conventional actuator in patients with definitely or potentially poor hand-mouth coordination.

[A new anti-inflammatory-analgesic-antipyretic, morniflumate, in the treatment of chronic recurring bronchitis]. / Un nuovo antiflogistico-analgesico-antipiretico, morniflumato nel trattamento della bronchite cronica riacutizzata.

To assess the therapeutic effects of morniflumate, a new non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, a controlled study versus imidazole-2-hydroxybenzoate, both combined with amoxicillin, and antibiotic therapy alone was carried out on 60 patients, aged 18 to 60 with flare-ups of chronic bronchitis. After administering morniflumate, all the clinical parameters assessed (objective auscultation, cough, expectoration, exertional dyspnoea, chest pain, hyperthermia) had improved. The modifications observed in this group were greater and earlier when compared to those of the control groups. No significant variations of laboratory parameters nor any particular side-effects were reported.