Response to Duovent of chronic reversible airways obstruction--a controlled trial in general practice.

A controlled trial was carried out in general practice comparing, in two successive 3 week periods, respiratory function in patients with chronic reversible airway obstruction treated, in the first period with their existing metered dose inhaler (MDI) and in the second period with Duovent , an MDI combining anticholinergic and beta2-stimulant agents respectively. One hundred and twenty-two patients were included. Peak expiratory flow rates were increased to a statistically significant degree during the Duovent period and, during this period, there was a significant reduction in day-time cough, night-time wheeze and night wakings . Global ratings by patients and physicians showed that 76% of patients improved with Duovent , and two-thirds of the patients preferred Duovent to their former MDI. Side effects with Duovent were mild, with dry mouth predominating.