Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 14, 2026

Methodology for Sputum Induction and Laboratory Processing
Published on: December 17, 2017
Efficacy of Nebulised Epinephrine versus Salbutamol in Hospitalised Children with Bronchiolitis
B M John1, S K Patnaik1, P L Prasad2
1Graded Specialist (Paediatrics), 7 Air Force Hospital, Kanpur Cantt. - 208004.
Background:
The use of bronchodilators in bronchiolitis lacks consensus. The efficacy of nebulised epinephrine versus salbutamol in bronchiolitis and the safety profile of the bronchodilators was studied.
Methods:
Effects of nebulised epinephrine and salbutamol were compared in children with moderate to severe acute bronchiolitis. Thirty children between 2 to 24 months of age were recruited, 15 in each treatment group. Children received periodic (0,30,60 minutes followed by 4 hourly) doses of either 1:1000 laevo- epinephrine (0.5ml/kg subject to a maximum of 2.5ml with 3ml saline) or salbutamol (0.15mg/kg with 3ml saline) via nebuliser with oxygen. Changes in heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), respiratory distress assessment instrument (RDAI), oxygen saturation (SpO2), oxygen requirement, duration of hospital stay and the side effects were studied.
Results:
The respiratory status was better with significant improvement in RR, RDAI score and SpO2, decreased oxygen requirement and shorter hospital stay in the epinephrine group. There were no significant side effects in either group.
Conclusion:
Nebulised epinephrine is a useful and safe drug for moderate/severe bronchiolitis and is superior to salbutamol.
Related Concept Videos
Antiasthma Drugs: β2-Adrenoceptor Agonists
One class of bronchodilators includes β2-adrenoceptor agonists. These agents target the β2-adrenoceptors located on bronchial smooth muscle cells. By stimulating these receptors, β2-agonists induce...
Adrenergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses
Emergency and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) applications: Pressor agents increase blood pressure, heart rate, and contractility in shock and organ failure situations. Dopamine can induce vasodilation and stimulate adrenoceptors. Endogenous catecholamines are effective in treating cardiogenic shock. α2-agonists like clonidine can reverse anesthesia-induced hypertension.
Allergies and...
Inhaled Medications
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Adrenergic Agonists: Mixed-Action Agents
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine lack a catecholamine group, making them less susceptible to degradation by metabolic enzymes. They have increased oral bioavailability and lipophilicity, resulting in a longer duration of action. Their response is reduced by...
Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...

