Open Access

Observational study of omeprazole for gastroesophageal reflux on pulmonary function in adult asthmatics


Cite

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of airways. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is known to be associated with worsening asthma. We hypothesized that treatment of GERD in asthmatics will improve asthma control and quality of life. We reviewed our experience of treatment of GERD in asthmatics in Thailand.

Objectives

To study the effects of omeprazole for treatment of GERD in patients with poorly controlled asthma on pulmonary function tests and asthma control test (ACT) scores.

Methods

This study was conducted at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital between August 2009 and December 2010. Patients with partly controlled and uncontrolled asthma who were found to have GERD by 24 hour esophageal pH monitoring were administered omeprazole 40 mg per day for 8 weeks. Pulmonary function tests and ACT scores before and after treatment were compared at 4-weeks and 8-weeks follow up.

Results

Twenty four patients were included in this study. None of them had asthmatic attacks during the study. After 4 and 8 weeks of omeprazole treatment, the mean FEV1 (2.20 ± 0.64 L, 2.36 ± 0.58 L, respectively) and the mean ACT score (20.82 ± 3.30, 23.00 ± 1.69, respectively) were significantly higher than the pretreatment values (mean FEV1 1.99 ± 0.56 L and ACT score 16.36 ± 3.97) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

High-dose omeprazole may improve pulmonary function and the level of asthma control in Thai patients with partly controlled or uncontrolled asthma and coexisting GERD.

eISSN:
1875-855X
Language:
English
Publication timeframe:
6 times per year
Journal Subjects:
Medicine, Assistive Professions, Nursing, Basic Medical Science, other, Clinical Medicine