Methodology: 4.5/5
Usefulness: 4/5
Schuh S, et al. JAMA. 2020 Nov 24;324(20):2038-2047.
Question and Methods: RCT assessing the effectiveness of nebulized magnesium versus placebo in children presenting with an acute asthma exacerbation refractory to standard therapy, on rates of hospitalization for asthma within 24 hours.
Findings: Nebulized magnesium did not significantly decrease the rate of hospitalization within 24 hours compared to placebo (43.5% versus 47.7%, 95% CI (-11% to 2.8%, p = .26)
Limitations: The lack of formal criteria to determine the need for hospitalization created a potential for selection bias.
Interpretation: No evidence to support to use of inhaled magnesium in asthma exacerbations refractory to standard ED therapy.
By: Dr. Maeghan Fu
