Effect of ipratropium bromide on respiratory mechanics in infants with acute bronchiolitis.

The effect of nebulized ipratropium bromide in 14 infants (mean age: 20 weeks, range: 4-41) with acute respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis was examined. A modified rapid chest compression technique was used to obtain partial expiratory flow-volume curves and maximum flow at functional residual capacity. Passive respiratory mechanics were assessed by brief occlusion at end inspiration. Thoracic gas volume was measured in a body plethysmograph. No significant difference was found in forced and passive respiratory mechanics pre- and post-ipratropium bromide. No subgroups could be identified. These results do not support the use of ipratropium bromide in acute viral bronchiolitis.