Double-blind crossover comparison between a beta-adrenergic agent and a new anticholinergic agent by metered dose...

The recently developed anticholinergic agent Oxitropium bromide (OTB) by metered dose inhaler is compared in a double-blind crossover study with the beta-adrenergic agent Fenoterol (FEN). Total airway resistance and forced expiratory volume served as evaluation criteria for the bronchodilating effect. The maximum effect is reached more quickly with FEN, but the effect of OTB lasts longer. On the whole the results show that the intensity of action of the anticholinergic agent coincides to a large extent with that of the beta-adrenergic agent.