The effect of albuterol aerosol on fine-motor performance in children with chronic asthma

A double-blind, crossover trial was conducted to examine the effect of albuterol aerosol on the fine-motor performance of children with chronic asthma. Twenty subjects, 4 1/2 to 14 1/2 years of age, were each tested after both the administration of albuterol aerosol and a placebo. The fine-motor composite of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency was used to evaluate abilities in response speed, visual-motor control, and speed and dexterity. The degree of tremor was tested with a "steadiness" tester, and postural adjustment was recorded on a clinical rating scale. No significant differences were found in fine-motor skills after albuterol or placebo administration, but a significant increase in tremor as well as in postural adjustment occurred after albuterol. The effect of test order and several other patient characteristics on test scores may be related to these findings. Major educational adjustments to compensate for the increase in tremor are unnecessary.