The Effect of Dexamethasone Aerosol on Airway Obstruction in Bronchial Asthma

1.The bronchodilator effect of dexamethasone aerosol was evaluated in a controlled study in 26 patients with chronic asthma. The forced expiratory volume for one second and the peak expiratory flow rate were used as indices of airway obstruction. Measurements were made three times a week for periods of four to eight weeks.2.Ten of 23 patients (43 per cent) showed a significant response while on dexamethasone aerosol; there was no rebound worsening after cessation. Most of the patients responding had the more severe degrees of airway obstruction.3.The only significant side-effect was exacerbation of airway obstruction in one patient. This was not seen with a dexamethasone-isoproterenol mixture. These results appear to warrant further controlled clinical trial of dexamethasone aerosol.