DRUG STUDY

Brand Name: Salbutamol, Ventolin Generic Name: Albuterol Drug Classification: Autonomic Nervous System Agent; Beta-
Adrenergic Agonist (Sympathomimetic); Bronchodilator (Respiratory Smooth Muscle Relaxant)

Dosage, Route &

Frequency Drug-Drug & Side Effects Adverse Reactions (By
Drug Action Drug-Food Indications Contraindications
Recommende Prescribe (By System) System)
Interactions
d d

1.25 Stimulates DRUG: Beta- Treatment or Contraindications: Frequent Body

mg/3mL beta2- adrenergic prevention of History of (27%–4%): Whole: Hypersensitivity
Nebulization neb adrenergic blocking bronchospas hypersensitivity to Headache; reaction.
inhalation receptors in agents (beta- m due to sympathomimetic restlessness,
•  Administer
x 1 dose lungs, blockers) reversible s. nervousness,
over 5–15
resulting in antagonize obstructive tremors;
min.
relaxation of effects. May airway nausea; CNS: Tremor, anxiety,
bronchial produce disease, dizziness; nervousness, restlessness,
Cautions:
smooth bronchospasm prevention of throat convulsions, weakness,
Hypertension,
muscle. . Atomoxetine, exercise dryness and
cardiovascular headache, hallucinations. 
MAOIs, induced irritation,
Nebulization: disease,
tricyclic bronchospas pharyngitis;
hyperthyroidism,
antidepressant m. B/P changes,
ADULTS, Therapeutic diabetes mellitus,
s may including CV: Palpitation, hypertensio
ELDERLY, Effect: HF, convulsive
potentiate hypertensio
CHILDREN Relieves disorders, n, hypotension,
cardiovascular n;
OLDER THAN bronchospas glaucoma, bradycardia, reflex
effects. May heartburn,
12 YRS: m and hypokalemia, tachycardia.
increase transient
(Acute, reduces arrhythmias.
effects of loop wheezing.
Severe): 2.5–5 airway
diuretics
mg q20min resistance.
(produce
for 3 doses, Spec Senses: Blurred vision,
hypokalemia),
then 2.5–10 sympathomi Occasional dilated pupils.
mg q1–4h or metics (3%–2%):
10–15 mg/hr (increase CNS Insomnia,
continuously. stimulation). asthenia,
(Quick Relief): altered GI: Nausea, vomiting.
1.25–5 mg taste.
q4–8h as Inhalation:
HERBAL: St.
needed. Dry, irritated
John’s wort other: Muscle cramps,
mouth or
may decrease hoarseness.
throat;
level/effects.
cough;
Ephedra, Diagnostic Test Interference
bronchial
yohimbe may Transient small increases in
irritation.
cause CNS
plasma glucose may occur.
stimulation.
Interaction

FOOD: Limit Rare:

caffeine (may Drowsiness,
cause CNS drug:  With epinephrine,
diarrhea, dry
stimulation). other sympathomimetic
mouth,
flushing, bronchodilators, possible
diaphoresis, additive effects; mao
LAB VALUES: anorexia inhibitors, tricyclic
May increase antidepressants potentiate
blood glucose action on vascular system;
level. May beta-adrenergic blockers
decrease antagonize the effects of
serum
both drugs.
potassium
level.

Responsibilities in the Nursing Process (ADPIE) Responsibilities in the Nursing Process (ADPIE)
  Review directions for correct use of medication and inhaler.

 Monitor therapeutic effectiveness which is indicated  Avoid contact of inhalation drug with eyes.
by significant subjective improvement in pulmonary
 Do not increase number or frequency of inhalations without advice of
function within 60–90 min after drug administration.
physician.
 Monitor for: S&S of fine tremor in fingers, which
 Notify physician if albuterol fails to provide relief because this can signify
may interfere with precision handwork; CNS
stimulation, particularly in children 2–6 y, worsening of pulmonary function and a reevaluation of
condition/therapy may be indicated.
 Lab tests: Periodic ABGs, pulmonary functions, and
 Note: Albuterol can cause dizziness or vertigo, take necessary
pulse oximetry.
precautions.
 Consult physician about giving last albuterol dose
 Do not use OTC drugs without physician approval. Many medications
several hours before bedtime, if drug-induced
(e.g., cold remedies) contain drugs that may intensify albuterol action.
insomnia is a problem.