Inhaled prazosin in asthma. Issue 5 (May 1981)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barnes, P J; Ind, P W; Dollery, C T
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 36:Issue 5(1981)
• Page Start: 378
• Page End: 381
• Publication Date: 1981-05
• Subjects: Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thx.36.5.378
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : Prazosin, a potent and selective alpha-adrenergic antagonist, was given by inhalation to nine asthmatic subjects aged 25-48 years (six with positive skin tests). Prazosin 0.5 mg, salbutamol 1 mg, or placebo were given by nebuliser in randomised double-blind fashion on separate days. Although all subjects showed a significant increase in FEV1, vital capacity, and maximum expiratory flow at 70% of total lung capacity after salbutamol, there was no significant difference between prazosin and placebo. This suggests that alpha-adrenergic receptors are not important in the control of bronchial tone in asthma. The weak bronchodilatation ascribed to alpha-antagonists in previous studies could be explained by other pharmacological actions of the drugs used.