Comparing the efficacy and influence on the quality of life of three classes of drugs used in bronchial asthma - a prospective study.

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of formoterol, montelukast and acebrophylline when used in combination with budesonide in patients with bronchial asthma and to determine their role in the improvement of the quality of life of patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 75 patients were divided into 3 groups based on treatment given – formoterol 6 mcg/puff + budesonide 100 mcg/puff combination inhaler, 2 puffs twice daily; oral montelukast 10 mg once daily + budesonide 100 mcg/puff, 2 puffs twice daily and oral acebrophylline 100 mg twice daily + budesonide 100 mcg/puff, 2 puffs twice daily. The patients were followed-up for 4 wk after initiating treatment. Spirometry values – forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), before and after treatment were recorded. The quality of life was assessed before and after treatment using Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ). Analysis was done using repeated measures ANOVA followed by Bonferroni’s post-hoc test. Results: As compared to baseline values, FEV1, PEFR and Quality of Life showed significant improvement in all 3 groups after 4 wk of treatment (p-value < 0.01). Three patients in acebrophylline-treated group reported gastric irritation while no adverse effects were reported in the other groups. Conclusion: Formoterol, montelukast or acebrophylline combined with inhaled corticosteroids have similar efficacy in the treatment of asthma.