THE USE OF DEMEROL IN PATIENTS WITH BRONCHIAL ASTHMA

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Abstract
During a remission the bronchoconstrictive effect of intraven. histamine was blocked moderately well and that of intraven. methacholine was blocked very well by 100 mg. Demerol intramusc. During an acute attack, pulmonary functions were tested before and after 50 to 100 mg. Demerol subcut. The vital capacity improved in 12 of 14 patients. The max. breathing capacity improved in 7 of 13 patients. Tidal vols. decreased in 7 patients, but remained well within normal range, 0.47 to 0.73 1.; in one patient it decreased to 0.234 1. The total min. ventilation decreased in 11 of 14 patients, but remained well within normal range, 4.67 to 13.39 1. Arterial blood gas studies in 4 patients showed no significant changes one hr. after Demerol. All patients in acute asthma felt improved after Demerol and demonstrated less wheezing. Demerol must be used with caution in patients with chronic hypoxia secondary to chronic pulmonary emphysema, especially in combination with barbiturates.