Bronchodilator effects of terbutaline and epinephrine in obstructive lung disease

A double-blind crossover comparison was made of the effects of terbutaline, a new adrenergic drug with major action on beta 2 receptors, epinephrine, and saline, on pulmonary function in 16 patients with chronic bronchitis or emphysema and 9 patients with bronchial asthma. Serial determinations of lung volumes, dynamic mechanics of breathing, and distribution of ventilation were made after subcutaneous administration. Terbutaline, 0.5 mg, was a more effective bronchodilator and had a longer duration of action than epinephrine 0.25 mg, but was associated with a higher incidence of side effects. These were generally minor and transient and included tremor, nervousness, and palpitations. Terbutaline may be useful in the management of bronchospasm of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.