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Vasoactive intestinal peptide as a bronchodilator in severe asthma
Peptides
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) demonstrated bronchodilator effects in severe asthma patients, though less potent than standard treatments. Intravenous VIP improved airflow, suggesting a potential therapeutic role.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Severe acute asthma remains a significant respiratory condition requiring effective bronchodilator therapy.
- Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a neuropeptide with known smooth muscle relaxant properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the bronchodilatory effects of intravenous vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in patients with severe acute asthma.
- To compare the efficacy of VIP with conventional bronchodilators like salbutamol and ipratropium bromide.
Main Methods:
- Two studies were conducted with eight in-patient volunteers each, recovering from severe acute asthma.
- Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) was administered intravenously at a rate of 6 pmol/kg/min.
- Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was measured to assess bronchodilation, with comparisons made to salbutamol and ipratropium bromide.
Main Results:
- Intravenous VIP infusion resulted in a significant increase in peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) by 26 +/- 9 l/min after 30 minutes (p < 0.01).
- Salbutamol produced a greater bronchodilation of 39 +/- 19 l/min.
- Following pretreatment with ipratropium bromide, VIP infusion still caused significant bronchodilation of 25 l/min (p < 0.02).
Conclusions:
- Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) exhibits bronchodilator properties in the context of severe acute asthma.
- The bronchodilatory effect of intravenous VIP is less pronounced than that of conventional medications such as salbutamol.
- The study suggests that reflex mechanisms are not the primary explanation for the observed bronchodilatory effects of intravenous VIP.
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