Spirometric evaluation of benadryl in asthma

1.1. Spirometric studies were performed on sixteen patients, thirty minutes and one hour following the administration of 100 mg. of benadryl orally. 2.2. When compared with the initial spirometric tracings, no consistent changes were noted in the vital capacity, tidal air, minute ventilation, expiratory differential, respiratory rate, or degree of emphysema following benadryl. 3.3. Following the administration of epinephrine and aminophylline to five of these sixteen patients, there was a uniform increase in the vital capacity, tidal air, minute ventilation, expiratory differential, and no increase in the respiratory rate. 4.4. Six of the patients derived subjective benefit with decrease in dyspnea following the use of benadryl. In three of these, spirometric data were directly opposed to the subjective report. In one case the same response was obtained as found after the administration of epinephrine and aminophylline.