Salbutamol

Question 1

Pharmacology and presentation of Salbutamol?

Answer 1

5mg/2.5ml Polyamp, 500mcg/1ml ampoule or 100microg MDI Inhaler

Salbutamol is a direct acting sympathomimetic agent which mainly affects B2 – adrenoceptors. It primarily acts as a bronchodilator but also has B1 (positive inotropic and chronotropic) actions. Additionally, it lowers serum potassium levels through its direct stimulation of the sodium/potassium ATPase pump, drawing potassium into cells. Salbutamol is also used IV in obstetrics for tocolysis.

Question 2

Indicators of Salbutamol?

Answer 2

• Respiratory distress with suspected bronchospasm:
  asthma, severe allergic reactions, COPD & smoke inhalation

Question 3

Contraindications of Salbutamol?

Answer 3

• Nil

Question 4

Cautions of Salbutamol?

Answer 4

• Diabetes Mellitus
• Cardiac disease
• Pregnancy/lactating mothers
• Between doses, oxygen must be administered continuously
• Large doses of IV Salbutamol have been reported to cause intracellular metabolic acidosis

Question 5

Side Effects of Salbutamol?

Answer 5

• Sinus tachycardia
• Muscle tremor

Question 6

Dosing Regimes of Salbutamol?

Answer 6

.

Question 7

Onset and duration of Salbutamol?

Answer 7

• Onset = 1-2 minutes IV, 5-15 minutes Neb
• Duration = 30-60 minutes IV,15-30 minutes Neb