Double-blind trial with standard doses of fenoterol and salbutamol in asthmatic children.

The broncho-dilating effect of fenoterol in aerosol form was studied in 16 children with asthma. The drug was compared with salbutamol in standard doses in a double-blind trial. Dynamic spirometric tests (FEV1.0 and VC) were performed before and up to 8 h after inhalation. There was a significant increase in the expiratory flow 5 min after inhalation of the two drugs. Maximal values were reached in 60-120 min. After 7-8 hours the increase was no longer significant. There were no significant differences between the two drugs tested. As no cardio-vascular side-effects or subjective discomfort was noted, fenoterol will be of great value in the routine treatment of children with asthma bronchiale.