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Effect of terbutaline on human eustachian tube function.
P White1, L Malm, O Tjernström
1Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, University Hospital of Lund, Sweden.
Summary
Terbutaline, a beta 2-adrenoceptor agonist, reduced Eustachian tube opening pressure and middle ear pressure. This suggests terbutaline may improve Eustachian tube function by stimulating secretions.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pharmacology
- Physiology
Background:
- The Eustachian tube (ET) regulates middle ear pressure.
- Dysfunction of the ET can lead to various ear pathologies.
- Understanding factors that influence ET function is clinically relevant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of terbutaline on Eustachian tube (ET) function.
- To assess changes in pressure opening level (Pol) and closing pressure (Pcl) after terbutaline administration.
Main Methods:
- 10 healthy adults received subcutaneous terbutaline (5 micrograms/kg) or saline.
- Quantitative impedance method and pressure chamber used to measure Pol and Pcl.
- Measurements taken 90 minutes post-injection.
Main Results:
- Terbutaline significantly reduced Pol by 7.3% (0.29 kPa).
- Terbutaline significantly decreased Pcl by 14.0% (0.17 kPa).
- Saline administration showed no significant changes in Pol or Pcl.
Conclusions:
- Terbutaline administration facilitates Eustachian tube opening.
- The effect is likely mediated by stimulated secretion of surface tension-lowering substances.
- Terbutaline may be a potential therapeutic agent for improving ET function.