Albuterol

Provider Level

EMT/AEMT/RN/Paramedic

Class

Sympathomimetic, Bronchodilator, Beta-2 Agonist

Mechanism of Action

Selective beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. Relaxes smooth muscle of the bronchial tree and peripheral vasculature by stimulating adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic nervous system.

Indications

Treatment of bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease (COPD/Asthma). Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm. Suspected hyperkalemia (crush syndrome).

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to albuterol or levalbuterol. Tachycardia secondary to underlying heart condition.

Routes

ET

Onset / Duration

Onset: 5-15 minutes. Peak: 30-120 minutes. Duration: 3-4 hours.

Adverse Effects

Tachycardia, palpitations, tremors, anxiety, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, paradoxial bronchospasm.

Precautions & Interactions

May exacerbate underlying cardiovascular disease, tachycardia, or arrhythmias. Use with caution in patients with diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or seizure disorders.

Special Considerations

Vital signs and breath sounds must be monitored before and after administration. Does not treat the underlying inflammatory cause of asthma or COPD.