High-dose versus low-dose nebulized albuterol in acute asthmatic attack: a randomized double-blind clinical trial

Asthma is a common condition, and seems to be increasing in prevalence in most countries around the world. Current guidelines for the treatment of patients with acute asthma have recommended the use of inhaled beta-agonists to reverse airflow obstruction. The optimal dose of albuterol for treatment of acute asthma has yet to be established. Most American references recommend a starting dose of 2.5 mg aerosolized albuterol every 20 min, while European authobities recommend higher doses.