Peripheral nerve function in patients with chronic bronchitis receiving almitrine or placebo.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pulmonology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Chronic bronchitis patients often have arterial hypoxemia.
• Peripheral nerve function can be affected in these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of almitrine bismesylate on peripheral nerve function.
• To assess the risk of peripheral neuropathy in chronic bronchitis patients treated with almitrine.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, prospective study involving 12 patients with chronic bronchitis and hypoxemia.
• Patients received either almitrine bismesylate or placebo for 12 months.
• Peripheral nerve function was assessed using electrophysiological testing.

Main Results:

• No peripheral neuropathy was observed in the placebo group.
• Four out of five patients receiving almitrine developed symptoms and signs of peripheral neuropathy.
• Electrophysiological studies revealed nerve abnormalities in affected patients, with poor recovery.

Conclusions:

• Almitrine bismesylate may precipitate peripheral neuropathy in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Patients should be informed about this potential risk for early detection and intervention.