Pulmonary Performance In Asymptomatic Young Nigerian Population Following The Administration Of Ascorbic Acid And Salbutamol

Abstract

The relationship between vitamin C and pulmonary function has been reported to be a protection against pulmonary dysfunction. Sympathomimetics like salbutamol are respiratory smooth muscle relaxants. This study is aimed at investigating the roles of vitamin C and salbutamol on pulmonary function in a Nigerian population. Undergraduate medical students who gave their informed consent were clinically screened and thirty (30) selected. The subjects were grouped, and given Ascorbic acid and Salbutamol. Spirometry and peak flow measurements were done on each subject. Ascorbic acid was given orally at a dose of 1.50 mg /kg body weight; and salbutamol at a dose of 70 μg/kg body weight, orally. Measurements were taken an hour after each administration of the drugs.

Results show mean PEFR in male and female control as 485.76 ± 51.40 L/min, and 329.87 ± 34.90 L/min respectively. Ascorbic acid increases PEFR much more than salbutamol VT, ERV, IC, VC and IRV were increased by ascorbic acid while Salbutamol decreased ERV, IC, VC and IRV. The study supports the performance enhancing role of ascorbic acid, more pronounced in the males than females. There do not seem to be any beneficial roles of salbutamol in asymptomatic individuals.

Key words: Lung function, Ascorbic acid, Salbutamol

Nigerian Journal of Physiological Sciences Vol.19(1&2) 2004: 48-52