Inhaled steroids in patients with bronchiectasis

Respir Med. 1992 Mar;86(2):121-4. doi: 10.1016/s0954-6111(06)80227-1.

Abstract

The effect of inhaled beclomethasone diproprionate (1500 micrograms day-1) on symptoms, pulmonary function and sputum production was examined in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study in 20 patients with bronchiectasis. An 18% reduction in daily sputum production (P less than 0.003) was observed on treatment with inhaled steroid compared to placebo. A small, significant, improvement in morning peak expiratory flow rate (P less than 0.03) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (P less than 0.03) was seen but the absolute changes are unlikely to be of clinical importance. Symptom scores for cough improved significantly (P less than 0.02). Inhaled steroids may have a role in the management of bronchiectasis by reducing cough and sputum production.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Inhalation
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Beclomethasone / administration & dosage
  • Bronchiectasis / drug therapy*
  • Bronchiectasis / physiopathology
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Forced Expiratory Volume / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Peak Expiratory Flow Rate / physiology

Substances

  • Beclomethasone