Ventilatory effects of aerosolized kanamycin and polymyxin.

Inhalation of nebulized antibiotics is associated with respiratory distress in some patients but the effect on the airways has not been studied. Ventilatory function was studied immediately before and 20 minutes after inhalation in patients having chronic lung disease, who were being treated with inhaled antibiotics. Kanamycin was associated with minor changes in ventilatory function but polymyxin (5 to 10 mg) was associated with significant deterioration in function. The possible harmful effect on the airways should be considered when medication is given by aerosol.