The results of stabilised hydrogen inhalations in patients with asthma

Objective. To evaluate the effect of stabilized hydrogen (H(H2O)m; H) inhalations on the clinical and functional characteristics of patients with uncontrolled and partially controlled asthma. Materials and methods. A double-blind, controlled study was conducted involving 25 outpatients with asthma (age 57.8±11.2 years, 72% females), matched for age, sex, and therapy. The patients were randomized 2:1 in the following groups: H+ (n=17) and H– (n=8). Patients in the H+ group received inhalations with an aerosol mixture of water steam and H for 60 min per day; patients in the H– group received only water steam inhalations. The number of inhalations was 10 (minimum 8), with intervals of no more than 2 days. Patients were examined at baseline, immediately after the treatment, and 28 days later. Results. In both groups of patients, asthma symptoms improved (ACT test), and 6-minute walk distance increased. In patients in the H+ group, exercise tolerance improved (mMRC and Borg scales, p<0.05); however, no intergroup differences were observed (p>0.05), including in the main spirometry, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and systemic inflammation parameters. The adverse events were mild, including a transient decrease in O2 saturation during inhalation; their incidence did not differ between the groups. Conclusion. In a small randomized controlled trial, stabilized hydrogen inhalation therapy improved asthma control and exercise tolerance, outcomes similar to those with water steam inhalation; no moderate or severe adverse events were reported.