Cumulative dose-response curves for comparison of oral bronchodilating drugs. A study of salbutamol and fenoterol.

Cumulative dose-response curves for orally administered fenoterol and salbutamol concerning effects of FEV1, heart rate, blood pressure and tremor were constructed. Three doses of fenoterol (2.5, 5 and 15 mg) and salbutamol (2, 6 and 18 mg) were given. Fenoterol was found to have a slightly higher potency than salbutamol. There was no difference in the beta2-selectivity of the two drugs. Tremor was the dose limiting side effect for both drugs. Cumulative dose-response curves for oral beta2-stimulants can be constructed fairly easily and valid conclusions can be drawn concerning selectivity, occurrence of side effects and dose limiting side effects.