[The oral application of berotec in the therapy of obstructive airway diseases]

The intensity and duration of action of Berotec (fenoterol) syrup in doses of 2.5 mg and 5.0 mg were investigated in an acute cross-over study in comparison with placebo, using the double blind technique. By measurement of the forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and the forced expiratory flow rate (FEF200-1200) significant improvement in pulmonary function could be detected from 1 to 4 hours after administration of 2.5 mg and from 1 to 8 hours after administration fo 5.0 mg Berotec syrup. The intensity of action exhibited a statistically significant dose dependence and was greater after the 5.0 mg dose (p=0.05) than after 2 puffs from Berotec metered aerosol taken by the patients in a pre-test. Minor side effects were observed in 2 cases: in one patient on the 5.0 mg dose they were clearly sympathomimetic and accompanied by a stronger bronchodilating effect.