Role of the Parasympathetic System in Airway Obstruction Due to Emphysema

Abstract
To study the relative contributions of parasympathetic and sympathetic mechanisms in airway obstruction in patients with emphysema, we gave supramaximal doses of anticholinergic and adrenergic agents in sequence and in combination. Serial doses of one agent were administered to achieve a plateau of bronchodilatation; after that the other agent was administered.