Use of beta 2-adrenergic drugs in obstructive respiratory tract diseases of childhood.

: The chemical structure and clinical application of beta 2-mimetic drugs used currently in obstructive respiratory tract diseases of childhood have been discussed. It has been pointed out that these drugs may be used as bronchodilators in manifesting obstruction and as prophylactic agents in chronic forms of such obstructive diseases. The aerosol forms of these compounds are the most effective but this route of administration meets some technical difficulties and cannot be used in children younger than 5-6 years. In the treatment of this age group, besides the tablet and elixir forms, the aerosol inhalation is the most useful. Selective slow-release beta 2-mimetics introduced about 25 years ago are successfully used in form of monotherapy or combination therapy in respiratory tract obstructions.