Effect of Ethamivan on Alveolar Ventilation in Patients with Chronic Lung Disease

ACUTE respiratory acidosis is being recognized with increasing frequency in patients with chronic lung disease. It is a life-threatening complication demanding immediate and vigorous treatment, which often involves tracheostomy and mechanically assisted ventilation. The therapeutic regimen is both complex and protracted, and the mortality, even under optimal conditions, is appreciable.1 Potent pharmacologic agents, particularly respiratory stimulants, have therefore been sought in the hope of reducing the mortality and simplifying therapy. Recently ethamivan (diethylaminovanillic acid) has been made available for intravenous and oral administration and has been recommended for use in patients with chronic lung disease as a potent specific stimulant . . .