Intramuscular Dexamethasone vs Oral Prednisolone for Asthma Exacerbations in Children: A Clinical Trial

Introduction: Prednisolone is a key component in the treatment of severe asthma. Recent studies show that dexamethasone is a promising option due to its easier dosage regimen and better tolerance. However, little is known about the efficacy of dexamethasone in patients. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of dexamethasone and prednisolone on the control of asthma attacks. Methods: In this clinical trial, 100 children aged 2 to 10 years were studied with asthma referred to the clinic of Ayatollah Golpayegani Hospital in Qom in the second half of 2018-2019. Patients were treated with prednisolone and intramuscular dexamethasone in two groups by random method. Salbutamol spray was initially prescribed for all patients. GINA and VAS questionnaires were completed for each child before and 7 days after treatment. Data were analyzed using SPSS Ver23 statistical software and descriptive and analytical tests. Results: The mean age of patients was 5.98 years. 40 were girls (40%) and the rest were boys. Chi-square and Fisher's exact test showed that both treatments were able to reduce GINA standard symptoms after 7 days and this reduction is significant (P = 0.001); Also, paired t-test showed that both treatments were able to reduce the VAS standard score after 7 days and this decrease is significant (P <0.05) Conclusion: In the treatment of acute asthma attack, oral and injectable corticosteroids have the same effect. The treatment method can be chosen according to the parents' consent, the child's cooperation, considering the side effects of the drug, and so on.