Albuterol Flashcards
Class
Sympathomimetic, bronchodilator
Mechanism of action
Selective beta - 2 agonist that stimulates adrenergic receptors of the sympathomimetic nervous system. Results in smooth muscle relaxation in the bronchial tree and peripheral vasculature.
Indications
Treatment of bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease ( COPD/ asthma). Prevention of exercise induced bronchospasm.
Contraindications
Known prior hypersensitivity reactions to Albuterol. Tachycardia, dysrhythmias, especially those caused by digitalis. Synergistic with other sympathomimetics
Adverse reaction / side effects
Often dose related and include headache, fatigue, light headedness, irritability, restlessness, aggressive behavior, pulmonary edema, hoarseness, nasal congestion, increased sputum, hypertension, tachycardia, dysrhythmias, chest pain, palpitations, nausea / vomiting, dry mouth, epigastric pain and tremors
Drug interactions
Tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate vasculature effects. Beta blockers are antagonistic and may bock pulmonary effects. May potentiate hypokalemia caused by diuretics
Adult dose /route
Administer 2.5 mg. Dilute in 0.5 ml of 0.5% solution for inhalation with 2.5 ml normal saline in nebulizer and administer over 10 to 15 mins.
MDI: 1 to 2 inhalations (90 to 180 mcg) wait 5 mins in between inhalations
Pedi dose / route
< 20 kg: 1.25 / dose via handheld nebulizer or mask over 20 minutes.
> 20 kg: 2.5 mg / dose via handheld nebulizer or mask over 20 minutes.
repeat once in 20 minutes
Duration of action
Onset: 5 to 15 minutes
Peak effects: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Pregnancy class
C
Special considerations
May precipitate angina pectoris and dysrhythmias.
In prehospital emergency care, albuterol should be administered only via inhalation.
Patients may need to be coached on proper use of MDI, particularly with spacer
