Efficacy of Nebulized Magnesium Sulphate in the Treatment of Acute Bronchial Asthma Compared to Nebulized Salbutamol: A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Background: Nebulized salbutamol is commonly used in treatment of asthma in children. The use of nebulized MgSO₄ is one of the different treatment options available during acute exacerbation.

Objective: To compare the efficacy of nebulized MgSO₄ with nebulized salbutamol in the treatment of acute asthma in children.

Materials and method: This randomized controlled study was conducted in Dhaka Medical College Hospital between January to December 2016. Children of 7-12 years with acute exacerbation of asthma were randomized into study group-A (MgSO₄ group, n=30) and control group-B (Salbutamol group, n=30). Children of both groups were treated with serial nebulization thrice at 20 minute intervals by either 2.4 ml (4% MgSO₄, 96 mg) or salbutamol (0.15 mg/kg minimum 2.5 mg) with 2.5 ml of isotonic normal saline.

Results: The mean final PEFR were not different between the two groups (275.0±41.42 L/min in MgS0₄ group and 263±36.17 L/min in salbutamol group). The increase in PEF was statistically significant and comparable in both groups (by 35.1% in the MgS0₄ group and by 42.1% in the salbutamol group). Fischl score improvement was comparable and significant in both groups (4.31 to 0.43 in MgS0₄ group and 4.29 to 0.76 in salbutamol group). Statistically significant increase in oxygen saturation and reduction of heart rate was found in MgS0₄ group without any side effects. Nebulized MgSO₄ was found having significant bronchodilator effect which is comparable to salbutamol.

Conclusion: Nebulized MgS0₄ was found equally effective as nebulized salbutamol in the treatment of severe acute asthma in children.

Bangladesh J Child Health 2020; VOL 44 (1) :24-29