Combining a Beta2-agonist with a face mask to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction

Authors: Millqvist E, Bengtsson U, Lowhagen O

Journal: Allergy 2000;55(7):672-5

BACKGROUND: In this study, we aimed to test the effect of combining a Beta2-agonist with a heat- and moisture-exchanging cellulose face mask in patients with bronchoconstriction induced by exercise in cold air.
METHODS: Nine allergic, asthmatic patients with a history of adverse reaction to exercise were tested on an ergometric bicycle at a temperature of approximately -10 degrees C. They were in turn given no treatment, given premedication with a Beta2-agonist, allowed to breathe through a heat- and moisture-exchanging cellulose face mask, and given both premedication and the face mask. After each treatment regimen, they were subjected to provocation with exercise and cold air. RESULTS: The decrease in FEV, was greatest with no therapy (mean maximal change: 27%), and this diminished when the face mask was used (mean maximal change: 12%,) or premedication with a 32-agonist was given (mean maximal change: 7%); no decrease in FEV1 occurred with the combination of agonist and face mask.
CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that different mechanisms are involved in the pathophysiology of exercise- induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). This finding may be of importance for asthmatic athletes who train and compete in a cold climate and are affected by small changes in their lung function.

PMID: 10921469 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The full text is available at:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10921469

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