Comparative bronchodilatory activity of cetiedil citrate monohydrate, theophylline, orciprenaline and placebo in adult asthmatics.

In 40 patients, a seven day observation period in which oral bronchodilators and corticosteroids were eliminated, cetiedil (100 mg, t.i.d.), theophylline (200 mg, t.i.d.) or orciprenaline (20 mg, t.i.d.) and placebo (100 mg Lactose, t.i.d.) were given for one week each, according to a double blind, crossover randomized code. Wheezing scores were improved by all three active drugs. Twenty five of these patients undertook a moderate degree of exercise. Cetiedil was the most effective drug in blocking exercise-induced bronchospasm of the drugs studied. At rest, FEV1/VC was improved by theophylline, while PEFR improved after orciprenaline. Cetiedil improved both parameters, significantly. In another 21 patients, cetiedil (100 mg, t.i.d.) was given, according to the 'patient blinded' method for two weeks. PEFR and Asthma Disability Scores steadily improved. Clinical effectiveness was observed as early as the 3rd or 4th day of cetiedil therapy, with maximum improvement detected on the 14th day. No major side effects or abnormalities in clinical laboratory tests were noted. Cetiedil also had a 'liquidifying effect' on bronchial mucous in these asthmatics.