Albuterol Flashcards
Albuterol Class:
Sympathomimetic, bronchodilator.
Albuterol Mechanism of Action:
Selective b-2 agonist which stimulates adrenergic receptors of the sympathomimetic nervous system resulting in smooth muscle relaxation in the bronchial tree and peripheral vasculature.
Albuterol Indications:
- Treatment of bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease (COPD/asthma).
- Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Albuterol Contraindications:
- Known prior hypersensitivity reactions to Albuterol.
- Tachycardia dysrhythmias, especially those caused by digitalis.
- Synergistic with other sympathomimetics
Albuterol Adverse Reactions:
-Often dose-related and include: Restlessness Tremors Dizziness Palpitations Tachycardia Nervousness Peripheral vasodilatation Nausea Vomiting Hyperglycemia Increased blood pressure Paradoxical bronchospasm
Albuterol Drug Interactions:
- Tricyclic antidepressants may potentate vasculature effects.
- Beta-blockers are antagonistic.
- May potentate hypokalemia caused by diuretics.
Albuterol How Supplied:
- Solution for aerosolization: 0.5% (5 mg/ml)
- Metered Dose Inhaler: 90 mcg/metered spray (17 gm canister with 200 inhalations)
- Syrup: 2 mg/5 ml
Albuterol Dosage and Administration:
Adult:
-Administer 2.5 mg. (Dilute 0.5 ml of 0.5% solution for inhalation with 2.5 ml normal saline) in nebulizer and administer over 10-15 minutes.
-MDI: 1-2 inhalations (90-180 mcg). Five minutes between inhalations
Pediatric:
-Administer solution of 0.01 - 0.03 ml (0.05 - 0.15 mg/kg) dose diluted in 2 ml of 0.9% Normal Saline.
-May repeat every 20 minutes three times.
Albuterol Onset:
5-15 min
Albuterol Peak Effect:
30 min - 2 hours
Albuterol Duration:
3-4 hours
Albuterol Pregnancy Class:
C
Albuterol Special Considerations:
- Antagonized by beta-blockers (e.g., Inderal, Metoprolol)
- May precipitate angina pectoris and dysrhythmias.
- Should only be administered by inhalation methodology in pre-hospital management.
