Effect of Salbutamol on Respiratory Muscle Strength in Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

BACKGROUND: Oral salbutamol has shown clinical benefits in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). We studied its effect on the respiratory muscle strength in children with different types of SMA. METHODS: Lung and respiratory muscle functions were assessed in children receiving daily oral salbutamol for at least one year. The respiratory data of age-matched SMA II historical control subjects were compared with data of SMA II patients receiving salbutamol. RESULTS: Seven children (6.4 ± 2.0 years old, range four to ten; one SMA I, five SMA II, and one SMA III) treated with salbutamol (duration 23 ± 8 months) were assessed. Maximal static inspiratory pressure, sniff nasal inspiratory pressure, and slow vital capacity were significantly better in the salbutamol-treated SMA II group compared with control subjects (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Long-term oral salbutamol showed benefits in respiratory function in children with SMA and appeared to increase the strength of the inspiratory muscles in a small cohort of SMA II patients.