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

B Mazer1, W Figueroa-Rosario, B Bender

  • 1National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Denver, CO 80206.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|August 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

Albuterol aerosol did not impact fine-motor skills in children with asthma. However, it significantly increased tremor and postural adjustments, though educational changes are not needed.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Neuroscience
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Chronic asthma affects children's daily activities.
  • Asthma medications may have unintended neurological side effects.
  • Fine-motor skills are crucial for development and learning.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of albuterol aerosol on fine-motor performance in children with chronic asthma.
  • To assess changes in tremor and postural adjustment following albuterol administration.
  • To determine if albuterol impacts specific components of fine-motor control.

Main Methods:

  • Double-blind, crossover trial with 20 children (4.5-14.5 years) diagnosed with chronic asthma.
  • Administration of albuterol aerosol and placebo, with testing after each.
  • Evaluation using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency for fine-motor skills, a steadiness tester for tremor, and a clinical rating scale for postural adjustment.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in fine-motor composite scores between albuterol and placebo.
  • Significant increases in tremor and postural adjustment observed after albuterol administration.
  • Potential influence of test order and patient characteristics on outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Albuterol aerosol does not impair fine-motor skills in pediatric asthma patients.
  • Albuterol administration is associated with increased tremor and postural instability.
  • Significant educational adjustments are not warranted due to observed tremor increases.

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