Drug Name

Action

Indication Adverse Effects

To relieve bronchospasm associated with acute or chronic asthma, bronchitis, or other reversible obstructive airway diseases. Also used to prevent exerciseinduced bronchospasm. Body as a Whole: Hypersensitivit y reaction. CNS: Tremor, anxiety, nervousness, restlessness, convulsions, weakness, headache, hallucinations. CV: Palpitation, hypertension, hypotension, bradycardia, reflex tachycardia. Special Senses: Blurred vision, dilated pupils. GI: Nausea, vomiting. Other: Muscle cramps, hoarseness.

Contraindication Nursing Responsibility

ALBUTEROL (al-byoo'ter-ole))

Synthetic sympathomimetic amine and Accuneb, moderately selective beta2Novosalmol , adrenergic Proventil, agonist with Proventil HFA, comparatively Proventil long action. Acts Repetabs, more Salbutamol, Ventolin, Ventolin prominently on Rotocaps, Volmax beta2 receptors (particularly smooth muscles Classifications: autonomic nervous of bronchi, system agent; beta- uterus, and vascular supply adrenergic agonist (sympathomimetic); to skeletal muscles) than on bronchodilator (respiratory smooth beta1 (heart) receptors. muscle relaxant) Minimal or no effect on alphaadrenergic receptors. Inhibits histamine release by mast cells.

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

Monitor therapeutic effectiveness which is indicated by significant subjective improvement in pulmonary function within 6090 min after drug administration. Monitor for: S&S of fine tremor in fingers, which may interfere with precision handwork; CNS stimulation, particularly in children 26 y, (hyperactivity, excitement, nervousness, insomnia), tachycardia, GI symptoms. Report promptly to physician. Lab tests: Periodic ABGs, pulmonary functions, and pulse oximetry. Consult physician about giving last albuterol dose several hours before bedtime, if drug-induced insomnia is a problem.