In bronchiolitis management, which therapies are not routinely recommended due to a lack of strong evidence?

• A. Antibiotics and antitussives.
• B. Nebulized hypertonic saline.
• C. Routine bronchodilators and systemic corticosteroids.
• D. Supportive care.

Answer: (C)

Bronchiolitis care centers on supportive management, and the medicines given routinely should show clear, consistent benefit. Large studies and guidelines show that giving bronchodilators on a regular basis and using systemic corticosteroids do not produce reliable improvements in important outcomes for typical infants with bronchiolitis. Because the benefits are not consistent and there are potential downsides, these therapies are not recommended as routine treatment. A brief, individual trial of a bronchodilator might be considered to see if there is a specific positive response, but it should not become standard practice for all patients. Systemic corticosteroids have not demonstrated meaningful benefit in the general bronchiolitis population and carry risks, so they’re likewise not recommended routinely. The emphasis stays on supportive care—ensuring adequate hydration and oxygenation—with treatment tailored to the child’s evolving needs.