What is the proper route for the first-line pediatric bronchodilator therapy?

• A. Inhalation
• B. Intravenous
• C. Subcutaneous
• D. Oral tablet

Answer: (A)

Delivering the bronchodilator by inhalation is the most appropriate first-line route for pediatric patients. Inhalation places the medicine directly into the airways, producing rapid bronchodilation with minimal systemic absorption and side effects. This quick onset is especially important for children with wheezing or bronchospasm, and can be achieved with a spacer and metered-dose inhaler or with a nebulizer. Other routes are not first-line because they are slower to act, less predictable in children, or more invasive and carry greater systemic exposure. Intravenous or subcutaneous delivery is reserved for more severe situations where inhaled therapy isn’t feasible, and oral tablets take longer to reach effective airway concentrations and have greater systemic effects.