Albuterol is not All Better All
Generic Name: albuterol sulfate
Trade Name: Ventolin HFA,Proventil HFA, ProAir HFA, Accuneb
Trade Name: Ventolin HFA,Proventil HFA, ProAir HFA, Accuneb
Chemical Name
Uses:
Bronchodilator for asthma or COPD, Prevents exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Routes/Dosages:
Bronchospasm:
MDI: 2 puffs q 4-6 hr prn; Neb: 1.25-5mg q 4-8 hour PRN
Acute asthma exacerbation:
MDI: 4-8 puffs q 20 minutes for up to 4 hr, then q 1-4 hr prn; Neb: 2.5-5mg q 20 min x 3 doses, then 2.5-10mg q 1-4 hr prn.
Exercise-induced asthma:
MDI: 2 puffs 5-30 minutes before exercise.
MDI: 2 puffs q 4-6 hr prn; Neb: 1.25-5mg q 4-8 hour PRN
Acute asthma exacerbation:
MDI: 4-8 puffs q 20 minutes for up to 4 hr, then q 1-4 hr prn; Neb: 2.5-5mg q 20 min x 3 doses, then 2.5-10mg q 1-4 hr prn.
Exercise-induced asthma:
MDI: 2 puffs 5-30 minutes before exercise.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs or TCAs may increase CV effects, Beta blockers may decrease therapeutic effect, diuretics may increase risk of hypokalemia.
Safe use not established during pregnancy (category C) and in nursing mothers; cautious use in cardiovascular disease
Pharmacokinetics
Onset: 5-15 minutes (inhaled)
Peak Effect: 0.5-2 hours
Duration: 3-6 hours
Metabolism: in the liver; may cross placenta
Elimination: half-life: 2.75 hours; 76% of drug eliminated in urine in 3 days
Peak Effect: 0.5-2 hours
Duration: 3-6 hours
Metabolism: in the liver; may cross placenta
Elimination: half-life: 2.75 hours; 76% of drug eliminated in urine in 3 days