ABSTRACT
A metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with spacer is the best way to deliver bronchodilator therapy for treatment of bronchoobstructive syndrome, especially in children. In developing countries, commercially produced spacers are generally unavailable or are too costly. Hence, a home-made spacer modified from a 500 ml plastic bottle, was compared with imported spacer (AeroChamber) in 80 children with spastic bronchitis. Clinical score, PEF and oximetry were recorded at baseline and 15 min after treatment. A beta-2- agonist (Ventolin) was given via MDI and two spacers (home-made and conventional spacers). PEF and oxygen saturation were significantly increased at 15 min after administration of the ventolin in both groups. No significant difference was observed between Aerochamber and the home-made spacer. In conclusion, ventolin delivered by MDI with AeroChamber was as effective in bronchodilatation as MDI with home-made spacer. The home-made spacer therefore offers a simple, inexpensive and effective method for delivering aerosol drug.
