Terbutaline aerosol from a metered dose inhaler with a 750-ml spacer or as a nebulized solution. Comparison of two delivery systems for bronchodilator aerosol.

The clinical effect of 1.0 mg terbutaline given as a pressurized aerosol with a 750-ml spacer was compared with that of 4.0 mg terbutaline given as a nebulized solution (Pari Inhalier Boy). No differences were found in the parameters measured--forced vital capacity, 1 s forced expiratory volume, forced mid-expiratory flow, and oscillatory resistance. The results indicate that the same clinical response to a given dose of a pressurized aerosol supplied with a 750-ml spacer has the same effect as a fourfold dose via a nebulizer. It is concluded that the more practical 750-ml spacer should be tried when contemplating nebulization therapy.