Bronchodilator effects on gastric acid secretion
L. J. Foster, W. L. Trudeau and A. L. Goldman
Nine patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were given oral
aminophylline, intravenous aminophylline, and various inhaled and oral
adrenergic bronchodilators to determine the effect of these agents on
gastric acid secretion and gastrin release. Inhaled epinephrine
hydrochloride resulted in an increase in basal acid output of borderline
significance (.05 less than P less than .10). Oral aminophylline caused a
significant increase in basal acid output from 2.43 to 4.06 mEq (P less
than .05). Intravenous aminophylline also caused a significant increase in
basal acid output from 0.66 to 2.19 mEq (P less than .01). There were no
statistically significant changes in serum gastrin levels after
administration of any of the bronchodilators. Aminophylline should be used
with caution, if at all, in patients with peptic ulcer disease. In these
patients, a beta agonist should be used for initial therapy. If the
addition of aminophylline is necessary, antacids should be given.
