Addition of a 2-month low-dose course of levofloxacin to long-term erythromycin therapy in sinobronchial syndrome.

Author(s): Fujimura M, Mizuguchi M, Nakatsumi Y, Mizuhashi K, Sasaki S, Yasui M, Kanazawa Asthma Research Group

Affiliation(s): The Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan. fujimura@med3.m.kanazawa-u.ac.jp

Publication date & source: 2002-12, Respirology., 7(4):317-24.

Publication type: Clinical Trial; Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: We previously reported that a 6-month low-dose course of ofloxacin combined with long-term low-dose erythromycin therapy (EM therapy) was superior to EM therapy alone for sinobronchial syndrome (SBS), especially during the initial 2 months of treatment. However, there was no data as to whether discontinuation of low-dose ofloxacin after 2 months results in symptom relapse. This study was designed to clarify this issue. METHODOLOGY: Twenty-three patients with SBS received a 2-month course of levofloxacin (LVFX) therapy (100 mg once a day) concurrent with a 6-month course of EM therapy (200 mg three times a day) (group A). Eighteen other patients were given the EM therapy alone (group B). Clinical parameters, including quantity of morning sputum, were recorded in a daily symptom diary, and reviewed by each doctor in charge at 2-4 week intervals. RESULTS: The quantity of morning sputum decreased more rapidly in group A than in group B. No relapse of symptoms was recognized after discontinuation of LVFX in group A. CONCLUSIONS: A 2-month low-dose course of LVFX in conjunction with long-term EM therapy may be efficacious for the treatment of SBS, as evidenced by rapid improvement of expectoration without any relapse after LVFX discontinuation.