Glycopyrrolate and Atropine Inhalation: Comparative Effects on Normal Airway Function

Bronchodilation was produced in normal subjects by inhalation of high doses of a quaternary parasympatholytic agent (glycopyrrolate), and responses were compared with those of atropine and a placebo. Both drugs induced significant increases in specific airway conductance (SGaw) and forced expiratory flows, but the effects of glycopyrrolate were sustained significantly longer (greater than 6 h). Whereas atropine produced an increased heart rate (26%) and severe dry mouth in all subjects, these symptoms were absent with glycopyrrolate and placebo. Therefore, glycopyrrolate produces significant bronchodilation of long duration but free of the side effects of muscarinic blockade that characterize atropine inhalation.