G M Cochrane

Assessment of optimum dose of inhaled terbutaline in patients with chronic asthma: The use of simple, cumulative dose-response curves

Abstract In eight patients with chronic severe asthma, maximal responses to inhaled terbutaline sulphate occurred with between 2 and 5 mg (four to ten times the usual inhaled dose). Forced vital capacity continued to increase with increasing dose of terbutaline in three patients when peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and first second forced expired volume (FEV 1 ) failed to increase further. We recommend individualizing doses of inhaled bronchodilator in patients with chronic asthma who fail to respond to inhaled β-agonists in normal doses, using simple cumulative dose-response curves, measuring changes in vital capacity in addition to PEFR and FEV 1 .

Haemoptysis and non-organic upper airways obstruction in a patient with previously undiagnosed Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Abstract We describe a case of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome presenting with haemoptysis and with inspiratory stridor, due to non-organic upper airways obstruction.

Home-monitoring of peak expiratory flow rate using mini-Wright peak flow meter in diagnosis of asthma

Home-monitoring of peak expiratory flow rate using the mini-Wright peak flow meter is a useful technique for determining whether or not unexplained respiratory symptoms are caused by asthma. It is of particular value when airflow obstruction cannot be demonstrated at the time of consultation.

Effect of inhaled alpha-blocker on airflow obstruction in asthma.

A controlled study of the effect on airflow obstruction of 30 mg of the alpha-blocker thymoxamine given by inhalation is reported in 10 patients with chronic stable asthma. No significant change in peak expiratory flow rate was seen with either thymoxamine or placebo in any patient. Alpha-adrenergic receptors are therefore unlikely to contribute significantly to resting bronchomotor tone in chronic stable asthma.