Albuterol

Question 1

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Class

Answer 1

• Sympathomimetic
• Bronchodilator

Question 2

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Mechanism of action

Answer 2

• Selective beta-2 agonist ** **
• Relaxes broncial smooth-muscles and peripheral vasculature

Question 3

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Indications

Answer 3

• Treatment of bronchospasm in pt with COPD/asthma
• Prevents excercise-induced bronchospasm

Question 4

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Allergic
• Synergistic with other sympathomimetics
• Tachycardia, arrhythmias, especially those caused by digitalis

Question 5

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Adverse reactions/side effects

Answer 5

• Often dose related and include:
  
  • H/A, N/V, dizziness, fatigue
  • Tremors, restlessness, nervousness
  • Hyperglycemia
  • Tachycardia, palpitations, peripheral vasodilation
  • Increased BP, paradoxical bronchospasm

Question 6

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Drug interactions

Answer 6

• Tricyclic antidepressents may potentiate vasculature effects
• Beta blockers are antagonistic (eg, Inderal, Lopressor)
• May potentiate hypokalemia caused by diuretics

Question 7

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Adult Dosage and administration

Answer 7

• **Adult: ** Give 2.5 mg in 2 mL by NEB over 10-15 min. May repeat every 20 min up to three times. (0.5 mL of the 0.5% solution)
• MDI: 1-2 inhalations (90-180 µg); wait 5 min between inhalations.

Question 8

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Pediatric Dosage and administration

Answer 8

• Ped: (ages 2 - 12)
• 2.5 mg in 2 mL by NEB over 10-15 min. May repeat every 20 min up to three times.(0.083% solution)

Question 9

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Duration of action

Answer 9

• Onset: 5-15 min
• Peak effect: 30 min to 2 hrs
• Duration: 3-4 hrs

Question 10

Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Special considerations

Answer 10

• Pregnancy: Cat C
• May precipitate angina pectoris and arrhythmias
• Prehospital only admister via inhalation