A comparative trial of combination therapy in obstructive airways disease.

Eleven patients suffering from chronic reversible airways obstruction completed a comparative crossover trial of two combinations of a controlled-release aminophylline formulation and inhaled salbutamol, and two combinations of oral and inhaled salbutamol. Assessment was by FEV1, which was measured at the end of each 2-week treatment period. The highest mean FEV1 was recorded in patients using controlled-release aminophylline plus routine inhaled salbutamol. The only treatment which gave a significant (p < 0.05) increase over baseline was a combination of controlled-release aminophylline and inhaled salbutamol on demand. The combination of controlled-release aminophylline plus inhaled salbutamol on need was significantly more effective than the combination of oral salbutamol plus routinely inhaled salbutamol.