Sustained-release terbutaline in nocturnal asthma

Fifteen adult patients with nocturnal asthma entered a double blind study. They received single evening dose of one sustained-release (SR) terbutaline tablet a 7.5 mg or an identical placebo tablet for 1 week, each in a randomised cross-over fashion in addition to their usual medication. In the 12 evaluated patients there was no change in evening PEF but a significant improvement in morning PEF P < 0.05) and in overnight fall of PEF (P < 0.01) on active treatment. Symptoms improved by both placebo and active medication. Three patients experienced tremor as a side effect. A single evening dose of SR-terbutaline can be of help in nocturnal asthma.