Randomized controlled trial of ipratropium bromide and salbutamol versus salbutamol alone in children with acute exacerbation of asthma.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate effect of addition of ipratropium to salbutamol delivered by metered dose inhaler and spacer in the beginning of treatment of mild to moderate exacerbation of asthma.

METHODS: Children between 5 to 15 years of age with mild to moderate exacerbation of asthma were randomized to receive either a combination of ipratropium bromide and salbutamol or salbutamol alone administered by metered dose inhaler and spacer. The effects on clinical asthma score and spirometric parameters were compared.

RESULTS: A total of 60 children were randomized in the study. The baseline characteristics of two groups were comparable. Children getting combination of salbutamol and ipratropium showed significantly greater improvement in percent-predicted PEFR and FEF25-75% than children receiving salbutamol alone.

CONCLUSION: There was beneficial effect of addition of ipratropium to salbutamol administered by MDI with spacer at the beginning of therapy for mild to moderate acute exacerbation of asthma in children.