Nebulized salbutamol vs salbutamol and ipratropium combination in asthma.

OBJECTIVE To see the additional benefit of combined frequent nebulization with salbutamol and ipratropium bromide in acute attack of asthma with moderate severity. METHODS Fifty asthmatic children in the age range of 6-14 years were divided into two equal groups. Group I children were nebulized with three doses of Salbutamol alone (0.03 ml/kg/dose) and Group II children were given combined nebulization of Salbutamol (dose as in group I) and Ipratropium bromide (250 microgm/dose for three doses) at 20 minutes interval. Children were observed at 15, 30, 60, 120, 180 and 240 minutes interval. RESULTS A significant improvement in % of PEFR starting at 30 minutes and lasting the entire study period of 4 hours was noted in both the groups. However on analysis of varience the results were better in group II. CONCLUSION Frequent combined nebulization with Salbutamol and Ipratropium bromide is beneficial in acute asthma of moderate severity.