Comparison of Berodual and salbutamol in asthma: a multicenter evaluation

A 2-month study was carried out to compare the efficacy and safety of Berodual (B) (Boehringer Ingelheim) and salbutamol (S) in asthma. B is a combined agent with 20 micrograms of ipratropium bromide and 50 micrograms of fenoterol in each metered aerosol puff. Each puff of S contained 100 micrograms of drug. 196 patients were included in the study and received 4 x 2 puffs a day of either B or S. FEV1 and FVC were measured every month, and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) 4 times a day, i.e. morning and evening before and after administration of drug. Improvement of PEFR was the same in the two groups. No tachyphylaxis occurred. No difference was observed between the two drugs with regard to heart and respiratory rate, dyspnea and blood pressure. Tremor seemed less frequent with B but this difference was not statistically significant. B achieved the same effects as S though containing less beta-2-agonist agent.