Similar Bronchodilation with Formoterol Delivered by Aerolizer or Turbuhaler

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In many countries, two dry powder formulations of inhaled formoterol are available for clinical use; one uses a single-dose device (Foradil, Aerolizer), and the other uses a multiple-dose device (Oxis, Turbuhaler).OBJECTIVES: To study the bronchodilating effect of formoterol 12 μg when delivered via the Aerolizer and Turbuhaler devices over 12 h.STUDY DESIGN: Randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study. Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁) was monitored during a 12 h period.PATIENTS: Nineteen nonsmoking asthma patients were included in the trial on the basis of reversibility of symptoms in response to inhaled salbutamol (either 200 or 400 μg given cumulatively; minimum reversibility 15%).RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the two dry powder devices regarding the change from baseline of FEV₁ over 12 h, the area under the curve of FEV₁ over 12 h or the maximum value of FEV₁. The improvement in FEV₁ with formoterol 12 μg versus placebo was highly significant for both devices.CONCLUSIONS: Formoterol is similarly effective when used as a dry powder when given by either Aerolizer or the Turbuhaler.