Albuterol/ Proventil/ Ventolin

Question 1

Albuterol Class

Answer 1

• Beta2 Agonist

* Sympathomimetic

Question 2

Albuterol Action

Answer 2

Acts selectively on Beta2 receptor sites in the lungs. Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle.
Decreasing airway resistance.
Relieves bronchospasm.
It will cause some CNS and cardiac stimulation.
Increased diuresis and gastric acid secretion.

Question 3

Albuterol Indications

Answer 3

• Bronchial asthma
• Bronchospasm in acute exacerbation of COPD
• Bronchospasm associated with cardiac asthma
• Bronchospasm in: Anaphylaxis, Burns, Toxic Inhalations
• Hyperkalemia

Question 4

Albuterol Contraindications

Answer 4

• Hypersensitivity

* Tachydysrhythmias

Question 5

Albuterol Precautions

Answer 5

• HTN
• Lactation and Pregnancy (C)
• Diabetes
• Seizures
• Known cardiac disease
• Hyperthyroidism
(caution in geriatric patients)

Question 6

Albuterol Dosage

Answer 6

Adults:
• MDI—1-2 inhalations, 1 min each, repeat q 15 min PRN
• Nebulizer—2.5 mg w/ O2 flow @ 8 lpm. May repeat PRN
• Hyperkalemia (Intubated): 4 unit doses (10 mg) directly down ETT followed by hyperventilation.
Pediatrics: same as adult dosage.

Question 7

Albuterol Onset/ Duration

Answer 7

• Onset: 5-15 minutes after inhalation

* Duration: 3-4 hours

Question 8

Albuterol Side Effects

Answer 8

Mostly sympathetic responses
• Palpitations, Tachycardia
• Anxiety, Nervousness
• Dizziness
• HA
• Tremor
• N/V
Less frequent, but more concerning:
• HTN
• Dysrhythmias
• Chest pain

Question 9

Albuterol Interactions

Answer 9

• Antagonistic Effects—BB including propranolol and esmolol.

* Additive Effects—MAOI’s, TCA’s, (sympathomimetics)