Comparison of Dexamethasone Oral Preparations to Assess Taste and Acceptance in Children With Asthma and Croup

Comparison of Dexamethasone Oral Preparations to Assess Palatability and Adverse Effects in Children With Asthma and Croup

Study of the palatability and acceptability of dexamethasone oral tablets crushed and placed in apple sauce or pudding in comparison with the IV solution mixed with sugar syrup and given orally. It is hypothesized that dexamethasone tablets crushed and administered in apple sauce or pudding will be more palatable and acceptable for pediatric patients receiving dexamethasone for an acute asthma exacerbation or croup.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of acute asthma exacerbation or croup (laryngotracheitis) in the Vanderbilt Children's Hospital Emergency Department
• Age 1 to 7 years
• Dexamethasone treatment indicated
• No other acute or chronic process accounting for signs and symptoms (e.g., foreign body aspiration, pneumonia, cystic fibrosis)
• Have not received systemic corticosteroid for current episode prior to enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Allergy to dexamethasone or apple sauce and pudding
• Unable to take medication orally