[Efficacy and tolerance of terbutaline and budesonide administered via a pressurized aerosol inhaler or a Turbohaler in asthmatic patients].

35 asthmatic patients, aged from 23 to 73 years, participated in an open study aimed to compare the efficacy and tolerance of terbutaline and budesonide administered in similar amounts with a metered-dose inhaler fitted with a spacer (Nebuhaler) or by a powder inhaler (Turbuhaler). The patients used each device for seven weeks after a running-in phase of two weeks and gave at the end their preference for one or the other mode of administration. Among lung function values, the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) was significantly higher during the Turbuhaler period than during the period with metered-dose inhaler whereas the forced vital capacity, mid-expiratory flow rate and peak-flow morning and evening were not significantly different. The use of beta 2-bronchodilators and clinical scores were similar with a non-significant trend in favor of the Turbuhaler period. 25 patients on 35 expressed a preference for the Turbuhaler. The administration of terbutaline and budesonide by Turbuhaler is similarly or more efficient then the inhalation from a metered-dose inhaler with a Nebuhaler spacer and is preferred by a majority of patients.