Terbutaline slow-release tablets in children with asthma. A comparison with t.i.d. beta 2-agonist therapy

The effects of 5 mg slow-release terbutaline sulphate tablets (Bricanyl Depot) given twice daily were compared with those of ordinary oral beta 2-agonist treatment given three times daily. The study was open, randomized and cross-over and was carried out over 8 weeks in 18 children with bronchial asthma. Compared with ordinary medication, the slow-release tablets obtained higher morning expiratory peak flow values and an improvement in the asthma symptoms during the night and during exercise (P less than 0.05). No differences were found in side effects in spite of a higher total daily dose during the period with terbutaline slow-release tablets. The slow-release tablets were preferred by 15 of 18 children and their families when the effects, side effects and dosage were evaluated.