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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffYou can treat most cases of bronchiolitis at home with self-care steps. Because viruses cause bronchiolitis, antibiotics — which are used to treat infections caused by bacteria — aren't effective against it. If your child has an associated bacterial infection, such as pneumonia, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for that.
In more severe cases, doctors may prescribe a bronchodilator, a medication to open up the airways in the lungs, such as albuterol or albuterol inhalers (Proventil, Ventolin, others). Inhaled antiviral drugs, such as ribavirin (Rebetol), also may be used, although they may not always be as effective as desired.
If your child has complications from bronchiolitis, a stay at the hospital may be necessary. At the hospital, your child will likely receive humidified oxygen to maintain sufficient oxygen in the blood, and perhaps fluids through a vein (intravenously) to prevent dehydration.
