Treatment of nocturnal asthma with pulsed-release albuterol

The treatment of nocturnal asthma remains a challenge. We investigated the use of a pulsed-released albuterol in ten patients with nocturnal symptoms of asthma. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover designed study, we tested the use of 8 mg of pulsed-release albuterol sulfate (Proventil Repetabs) vs placebo. The pulsed-release albuterol significantly blunted the overnight drop in FEV1, improved peak flow readings in the morning, and decreased subjective awakenings from sleep. We conclude that pulsed-released albuterol is an effective therapeutic option in patients with nocturnal asthma.