Albuterol liquid for cough
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Efficacy of Albuterol Liquid for Cough: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Albuterol and Cough Treatment
Albuterol, a beta-agonist, is commonly used to treat bronchospasm in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, its effectiveness in treating acute cough, particularly in non-asthmatic individuals, has been a subject of research. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to evaluate the efficacy of oral albuterol for acute cough.
Oral Albuterol for Acute Cough in Non-Asthmatic Children
Research indicates that oral albuterol is not effective in reducing the frequency or duration of acute cough in non-asthmatic children. A study involving 59 children showed no significant difference in the resolution of cough between those treated with albuterol and those given a placebo. However, children treated with albuterol experienced more side effects such as shaking or trembling .
Oral Albuterol for Acute Cough in Adults
Similar findings were observed in adults. A randomized controlled trial with 104 adults found no significant difference in cough severity, reduction in sleepless nights, healthcare utilization, or return to full activity between the albuterol and placebo groups. Additionally, albuterol-treated subjects reported more side effects like shakiness and nervousness.
Albuterol for Acute Bronchitis
In contrast, albuterol delivered via a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) has shown some efficacy in treating acute bronchitis. Studies have demonstrated that patients with acute bronchitis who used albuterol MDI were less likely to be coughing after 7 days compared to those using a placebo inhaler. This effect was consistent regardless of smoking status or the use of antibiotics .
Albuterol and Cough During Anesthesia
Albuterol has also been studied in the context of anesthesia. One study found that albuterol did not significantly affect the frequency or amplitude of cough during emergence from anesthesia. Both smokers and non-smokers showed similar coughing patterns, and albuterol treatment did not prevent cough.
Conclusion
Overall, oral albuterol does not appear to be effective for treating acute cough in non-asthmatic children or adults. While it may reduce coughing in cases of acute bronchitis when delivered via MDI, its use for non-specific acute cough is not supported by current evidence. Additionally, albuterol does not seem to mitigate cough during anesthesia emergence. Therefore, the use of oral albuterol for acute cough should be reconsidered, and alternative treatments may be more appropriate.
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