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Physiologic effects of terbutaline on pulmonary function of infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia

R Sosulski, S Abbasi, V K Bhutani

    Pediatric Pulmonology
    |September 1, 1986
    PubMed

    Insights

    Subcutaneous terbutaline significantly improved lung mechanics in infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). This bronchodilator enhanced lung compliance and reduced pulmonary resistance, aiding ventilator-dependent infants.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Pulmonology
    • Neonatal Medicine
    • Pharmacology

    Background:

    • Severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) presents significant challenges in ventilator-dependent infants.
    • Pulmonary mechanics are often severely compromised in these patients.
    • Limited therapeutic options exist to improve respiratory outcomes in severe BPD.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the physiological effects of subcutaneous terbutaline on pulmonary mechanics.
    • To assess the impact of terbutaline on ventilator-dependent infants with severe BPD.
    • To determine if terbutaline administration improves lung compliance and reduces airway resistance.

    Main Methods:

    • A cohort of eight ventilator-dependent infants with severe BPD was studied.
    • Pulmonary mechanics and arterial blood gases were measured before and after terbutaline administration.
    • Subcutaneous terbutaline (5 micrograms/kg) was administered, with measurements taken at 30 and 60 minutes.

    Main Results:

    • Significant improvement in lung compliance (38%) observed at 30 and 60 minutes post-administration (p < 0.001).
    • Significant reduction in pulmonary resistance by 23% at 30 minutes and 26% at 60 minutes (p < 0.05).
    • Increased I/E ratio in all patients at 60 minutes (p < 0.01) and clinical improvement in 6/8 infants.

    Conclusions:

    • Subcutaneous terbutaline administration leads to significant improvements in pulmonary mechanics in infants with severe BPD.
    • Terbutaline effectively enhances lung compliance and decreases pulmonary resistance.
    • These findings suggest terbutaline as a potential therapeutic agent for improving respiratory function in this vulnerable population.

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