title: Low-dose beta-agonist continuous nebulization therapy for status asthmaticus in children.
abstract: The role of continuous nebulization therapy (CNT) with low-dose beta (beta) agonist was retrospectively reviewed in 7 children admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit for treatment of acute severe asthma. Clinical asthma score (CAS), alveolar-arterial oxygen difference (A-aDO2), PaCO2, heart rate, and respiratory rate were recorded at 0, 12, and 24 hr of CNT. All patients had a decrease in CAS at 12 hr (p < 0.008) and decreased A-aDO2, PaCO2, respiratory rate, and heart rate at 24 hr (p < 0.008). No patient required escalation of dosage or additional intervention such as intravenous beta-agonist therapy or mechanical ventilation. No patient experienced significant cardiovascular toxicity or hypokalemia. We conclude that CNT with low-dose beta agonists should be considered in the initial approach to therapy in children with acute severe asthma.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Kentucky 40292.
authors.forename: V L
authors.initials: VL
authors.lastname: Montgomery
authors.forename: N S
authors.initials: NS
authors.lastname: Eid
mesh_terms: D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000293:Adolescent; D000336:Aerosols; D000420:Albuterol / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007545:Isoproterenol / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013224:Status Asthmaticus / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: D000336:Aerosols; D007545:Isoproterenol; D000420:Albuterol