Aerosolized Atropine in Relief of Bronchospasm and Cough: A Case Report

A patient with severe asthma and chronic bronchitis presented with bronchospasm and paroxysmal cough refractory to traditional pharmacologic therapy, including aminophylline, prednisone, and other sympathomimetic agents. Concurrent with the addition of aerosolized atropine to his regimen, this patient demonstrated marked improvement in pulmonary function and clinical status. Pulmonary function response in this patient to single challenges of isoetharine and atropine was compared from tests occurring within a period of five months. Much greater improvement was noted with atropine. Aerosolized atropine should be considered in treatment of bronchospasm and severe paroxysmal cough.