A prospective comparative study of efficacy of intravenous magnesium sulfate infusion versus placebo, as an adjuvant to nebulized salbutamol in the management of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Background: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (AECOPD) are a frequent cause of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality and require serious medical attention. Much research has demonstrated the beneficial effects of intravenous and nebulized magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) as a bronchodilator, in the management of acute severe asthma. Nevertheless, the extent of the benefits of intravenous MgSO4 as an adjuvant to bronchodilators in AECOPD remains uncertain. Therefore, the current study aims to address this gap in knowledge. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of intravenous magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) versus placebo when used as an adjuvant to nebulized salbutamol in managing AECOPD. Materials and Methods: In this comparative prospective interventional, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study, a total of 60 subjects were assigned to two groups consisting of 30 individuals each. The allocation was non-randomized and open-label, with one group receiving intravenous MgSO4 as an adjuvant to nebulized salbutamol, while the other group received a placebo in the same manner. The evaluation of MgSO4 efficacy involved measuring the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), which served as the primary outcome parameter. PEFR measurements were taken at 0, 15, 30, and 45 min to assess the effectiveness of MgSO4. Safety and tolerability of MgSO4 were assessed based on changes in heart rate, blood pressure, deep tendon reflexes, and respiratory rate. Results: At 45 min, the mean change in PEFR was significantly higher (P = 0.061) in the MgSO4 group (178.33 ± 49.18) compared to the placebo group (155.43 ± 41.86). Moreover, the mean difference in PEFR between the two groups was consistently higher in the MgSO4 group at every observation. MgSO4 showed considerable safety and tolerability in subjects based on the postmedication monitoring of hypermagnesemia symptoms. Conclusion: Administering intravenous magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) as an adjuvant to bronchodilators in AECOPD led to the improvement of both clinical condition and PEFR. In AECOPD, MgSO4 exhibits enhanced early bronchodilator response when combined with other drugs, demonstrating significant efficacy, good safety, and tolerability at the prescribed dosage.