Salmeterol vs. formoterol: a comparison of rapid bronchodilator effect in a randomized controlled trial.

We conducted this double blind randomized controlled trial to compare the rapid bronchodilator effect of salmeterol and formoterol in 60 children with stable asthma. Participants were randomized to receive either salmeterol (50 microg) (n=31) or formoterol (24 microg) (n=29) by metered dose inhaler and spacer. Spirometry was performed at baseline, at 30 minutes, and at 60 minutes. Bronchodilatation was assessed by changes in FEV(1) at 30 and 60 minutes. Baseline parameters were comparable in the two groups. There was no significant difference in the FEV(1) at 30 and 60 minutes between two groups. We conclude that salmeterol and formoterol both cause bronchodilator response at end of 60 minutes and are not different with regards to their rapid bronchodilator response.