Drug Cards

Albuterol

Proventil, Ventolinn
Class:
Sympathomimetic, Broncodilator.
Mechanism of Action:
Selective Beta-2 agonist which stimulates adrenergic receptors of the sympathomimetic nervous system resulting in smooth muscle relaxation in the bronchial tree and peripheral vasculature.
Indications:
Treatment of bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease (COPD / Asthma).
Contraindications:
  • Known prior hypersensitivity reactions to Albutreol.
  • Tacycardia, dysrhythmias, especially those caused by digitalis.
  • Synergistic with other sympathomimetics.
Adverse reactions:
Often dose-related and include restlessness, tremors, dizziness, palpations, tachycardia, nervousness, peripheral vasodilation, nausea, vomiting, hyperglycemia, increased blood pressure and paradoxical bronchospasm.
Drug interactions
  • Tricyclic antidepressants may pontentiate vasculature effects.
  • Beta-blockers are antagonistic.
  • May potentiate hypokalemia caused by diuretics.
Adult Dosage and Administration
Administer 2.5 mg. Dilute 0.5ml of 0.5% solution for inhalation with 2.5mL NS in nebulizer and administer over 10-15 minutes.
🧸
Pediatric Dosage and Administration:
2.5mg in 6mL NS.
Duration of Action
  • Onset: 5-15 minutes
  • Peak effect: 30 minutes
  • Duration: 3-4 hours
Special Considerations:
  • Pregnancy Safety: Category C.
  • Antagonized by beta-blockers (e.g., Inderal, Metoprolol).
  • May precipitate angina pectoris and dysrhythmias.
  • Should only be administered by inhalation methodology in pre-hospital management.