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.