Albuterol (Ventolin)

Question 1

Class / Action

Answer 1

Class: Bronchodilator, beta-2 selective, sympathetic antagonist
Actions:
1. Relaxes bronchial and uterine smooth muscle by acting on beta adrenergic receptors
2. Causes potassium influx into the cell

Question 2

Onset / Duration of Action

Answer 2

Onset in 5-15min / Duration of 3-6hours

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

1. Wheezing, allergic reactions, asthma, COPD
2. Suspected hyperkalemia
3. Crush Injury Syndrome

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

Known Hypersensitivity

Question 5

Precautions

Answer 5

1. Pts with cardiovascular disease
2. Pts taking tricyclics (TCAs)
3. Elderly pts generally require a lower dose (unless on beta-blockers)
4. Beta-blockers may blunt effect

Question 6

Dosage / Administration

Answer 6

1. ADULT:
   a. SVN:
   i. CHF: Albuterol 2.5mg/3mL NS; may repeat once
   ii. Asthma/COPD/Allergic Reactions:
   a) Albuterol (2.5mg/3mL NS) with Atrovent 0.5mg/3mL NS; may repeat combination ONCE
   b) Additional doses of Albuterol 2.5mg/3mL NS can be given continuously
   iii. Anaphylaxis/Renal Dialysis with Hyperkalemia/Crush Injury: 2.5mg/3mL NS continuously
   b. MDI: EMT may assist with pts own Rx MDI, as indicated to a total of 5 doses then call Base Station for medical direction
2. PED: Use blow-by if <5years old
   a. Albuterol 2.5mg with Atrovent 0.25mg/3mL NS; may repeat ONCE
   b. Additional doses of Albuterol 2.5mg/3mL NS can be given continuously

Question 7

Adverse Reactions

Answer 7

Tremor, Nervousness, Dizziness, HA, Tachycardia, Palpitations, Hypertension, Nausea and Vomiting, Ventricular arrhythmias.