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Albuterol: Uses, Dosage, and Nursing Tips

Albuterol (Salbutamol) is a bronchodilator used to treat reversible airway obstruction caused by asthma or COPD. It works by binding to beta2-adrenergic receptors in the airways, relaxing smooth muscle and causing bronchodilation. Common side effects include nervousness, tremors, and increased heart rate. Nurses should monitor patients for paradoxical bronchospasm and instruct patients and caregivers on proper administration and monitoring of symptoms.

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Monica Lyka Bancale
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586 views1 page

Albuterol: Uses, Dosage, and Nursing Tips

Albuterol (Salbutamol) is a bronchodilator used to treat reversible airway obstruction caused by asthma or COPD. It works by binding to beta2-adrenergic receptors in the airways, relaxing smooth muscle and causing bronchodilation. Common side effects include nervousness, tremors, and increased heart rate. Nurses should monitor patients for paradoxical bronchospasm and instruct patients and caregivers on proper administration and monitoring of symptoms.

Uploaded by

Monica Lyka Bancale
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOC, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Name of Drug Generic (Brand): Albuterol (Salbutamol)

Dosage and Route: Adult: PO 24 mg 3 4 times/d, 48 mg sustained release 2 times/d Inhaled 12 inhalations q46h Child: PO 26 y, 0.1 0.2 mg/kg t.i.d. (max: 4 mg/dose); 612 y, 2 mg 34 times/d; Inhaled 612 y, 12 inhalations q46h

Classification

Mechanism of Action
Binds to beta2adrenergic receptors in airway smooth muscle, leading to activation of adenylcyclase and increased levels of cyclic-3', 5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Increases in cAMP activate kinases, which inhibit the phosphorylation of myosin and decrease intracellular calcium. Decreased intracellular calcium relaxes smooth muscle airways. Relaxation of airway smooth muscle with subsequent bronchodilation

Indication

Contraindication
Pregnancy (category C), lactation. Use of oral syrup in children <2 y.

Side Effects

Nursing Implications

Bronchodilators
autonomic nervous system agent; betaadrenergic agonist (sympathomimetic); bronchodilator (respiratory smooth muscle relaxant)

~Used as a bronchodilator in the management of reversible airway obstruction caused by asthma or COPD ~Used as a quick-relief agent for acute bronchospasm and for prevention of exerciseinduced bronchospasm

CNS: nervousness, restlessness, tremor, headache, insomnia. CV: chest pain palpitations, angina, arrhythmias, hypertension. GI: nausea, vomiting. Endo: hyperglycemia. F and E: hypokalemia. Neuro: tremor.
Body as a Whole: Hypersensitivity reaction. Other: Muscle cramps, hoarseness.

BEFORE: ~Assess lung sounds, pulse, and blood pressure before administration and during peak of medication. Note amount, color, and character of sputum produced. ~Monitor pulmonary function tests before initiating therapy and periodically throughout course to determine effectiveness of medication. DURING: ~Observe for paradoxical bronchospasm (wheezing). If condition occurs, withhold medication and notify physician or other health care professional immediately. ~ Instruct mother to take missed dose as soon as remembered, spacing remaining doses at regular intervals. Do not double doses or increase the dose or frequency of doses. AFTER: ~ Inform the mother not to smoke near the child and to avoid respiratory irritants. ~ Advise the mother to rinse the childs mouth with water after each inhalation dose to minimize dry mouth.

Source:

DAVIS DRUG GUIDE FOR NURSES 8th EDITION___

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