ALBUTEROL (Proventil®, Ventolin®)
CLASS:
Sympathomimetic
Beta-2 adrenergic (agonist)
Bronchodilator
ACTION :
Stimulates B2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, resulting in relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle.
For Hyperkalemia causes an intracellular shift of K+
INDICATIONS:
Asthma
Exacerbation of COPD
Anaphylaxis
Nebulizer treatment may be indicated in cardiac wheeze
Hyperkalemia
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Hypersensitivity
Severe Cardiac dysrhythmias
STANDARD PREP:
metered dose inhaler delivers 90 mcg / metered dose
2.5 mg in 3 cc
DOSAGE / ROUTE:
2.5 - 5.0 mg diluted to 3 cc NS via nebulizer.
Onset: 5 – 15 minutes after inhalation
Duration: 3 – 4 hours after inhalation
PEDIATRIC DOSE:
Albuterol 2.5 – 5.0 mg diluted for nebulizer use
SIDE EFFECTS:
Dysrhythmias, tachycardia, palpitations, chest pain
Hypertension, dizziness, anxiety, restlessness
Tremors, N & V, throat dryness
PRECAUTIONS:
Beta blockers antagonize (blocks) effects of albuterol
Digoxin, MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants may increase the risk of arrhythmias
Albuterol may inhibit uterine contractility (because uterus has B2 adrenergic receptors)
Caution in cardiovascular disease, DM, Hyperthyroidism.
Exercise care in presence of tachycardia and hypertension