Tulobuterol in the management of obstructive airways disease in adults.

Beta 2-adrenergic agents are useful in the management of acute and chronic asthma. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are less responsive to bronchodilator therapy; however, a trial of beta 2-agonists is warranted in search of a reversible component. The newer beta 2-sympathomimetic agents have no important differences in the quality of bronchodilation, but individual patients may respond more favorably to one drug than to another. Most of the common adverse effects (eg, tremor and tachycardia) are an extension of the pharmacologic effects, so there are no important differences at equipotent doses. When chronic symptoms necessitate maintenance treatment, the frequency of dosing may become a deciding factor in the selection of a bronchodilator. Since tulobuterol is recommended for twice-a-day dosing, it may be more convenient for the patient than beta 2-sympathomimetics that require more frequent administration. The prolonged duration of action of tulobuterol minimizes the need for nocturnal drug administration, allowing the patient to sleep through the night. Thus tulobuterol offers the benefits of extended symptomatic protection and improved patient compliance.