Albuterol Flashcards
Class
Bronchodilator: Sympathomimetic (beta-2 specific)
Action
- Relaxes bronchial smooth muscles by stimulating beta-2 adrenergic receptors.
- Produces bronchodilation, relieves bronchospasm, and reduces airway resistance.
- ONSET = 5 minutes, PEAK = 1 hour, DURATION = up to 5 hours
Indications (respiratory)
Respiratory Distress (S-136, S-167)
- Suspected non cardiac
Allergic Reaction / Anaphylaxis (S-122, S-162)
- Acute allergic reactions or anaphylaxis
Burns (S-124, S-170)
- Respiratory distress with bronchospasm
Dosage/Route (respiratory)
ADULT:
6ml (0.083%) via nebulizer MR
PEDS:
PDC via nebulizer MR
Indications (other)
Hemodialysis Patient (S-131) -symptomatic, suspected hyperkalemia if > 72 hours since last dialysis
Dosage/Route (other)
ADULT: Continuous 6ml (0.083%) via nebulizer MR
Contraindications
- None in adults
* PEDS: for croup/stridor (nebulized saline/epinephrine is indicated)
Side Effects
- Tachycardia / Palpitations
- Dizziness, headache
- Tremors, nervousness
Special Information (Packaging)
2.5mg/3ml or 0.083%
Special Information (Administration)
- Use 4-6 liters of O2 for handheld mouthpiece.
* Use 6-10 liters of O2 for aerosol mask, CPAP and ET tube
Special Information (Cautions & Considerations)
Consider anaphylaxis if wheezing in the patient with distress, especially if no history of ashtma
Special Information (Special Info)
- Continuous nebulized Albuterol is the goal for hyperkalemia and patients in respiratory distress
- Decreases hyperkalemia associated with dialysis patients by facilitating the movement of potassium back into cells
- Fireline Paramedics (FEMP) without access to oxygen may use MDI delivery for albuterol in place of nebulizer (2.5mg inhaler = 2 puffs)
Other Names
Proventil, Ventolin
