Albuterol

Question 1

Class

Answer 1

Broncodilator: sympathomimetic (bet-2 specific)

Question 2

Action

Answer 2

Relaxes bronchial, smooth muscles by stimulating beta-two adrenergic receptors.
Produces bronco dilation, relieves broncospasm, and reduces airway resistance

Question 3

Onset

Answer 3

Onset 5 minutes
Peak 1 hour
Duration up to 5 hours

Question 4

Indications

Answer 4

Respiratory distress-suspected non-cardiac with broncospasms
Allergic reaction/anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis with respiratory involvement
Burns with respiratory distress with bronchospasm
Hemodialysis patient-suspected hyperkalemia(with widened QRS complex or peaked T waves)

Question 5

dosage/route

Answer 5

Adult
6 mL via nebulizer SO MR SO
Pediatric
PDC via nebulizer SO MR SO

Question 6

Contraindications

Answer 6

Peds: avoid for croup/stridor (Nebulized Saline/Epinephrine is indicated)

Question 7

Adverse effects

Answer 7

Tachycardia/palpitations
Dizziness, headache, tremors, nervousness

Question 8

Adverse effects

Answer 8

Tachycardia/palpitations
Dizziness, headache, tremors, nervousness

Question 9

Packaging

Answer 9

2.5 mg/3ml
Optional : metered dose inhaler

Question 10

Administration

Answer 10

Obtain room air, 02 saturation prior to oxygen administration, if possible.
Use with 4-6 liters of O2 for handheld mouthpiece.
Use with 6-10 liters of O2 four aerosol mask, CPAP and ET tube

Question 11

Cautions & considerations

Answer 11

If concerned about aerosolized infectious exposure, substitute with albuterol, MDI.
Consider applying HEPA filters with aerosol generating procedures for in-line nebulizer treatments

Question 12

Special information

Answer 12

Continuous nebulized albuterol is the goal for hyperkalemia and patients in respiratory distress.
Iratropium is not added to albuterol for hyperkalemia & burn patients.
Decreases hyperkalemia, associated with dialysis patients by facilitating the movement of potassium back into cells