al byū’ tər  ol

Brand Names: Proventil® , Ventolin®, Proair®

  • Generic solution available*

Common Dosage Forms:

  • HFA Inhaler: 90 mcg albuterol sulfate per spray.
  • Powder Inhaler (Proair®  Respiclick):  90 mcg albuterol sulfate per spray (200 inhalations)
  • Solution for inhalation*: 0.5% (concentrated) and 0.63mg/3mL, 1.25mg/3mL, and 2.5mg/3mL (unit dose)

*HFA inhalers are not AB-rated.

FDA Indications/Dosages:

  • Relief of bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease: Aerosol Inhaler:   One to two inhalations every four to six hours. Inhalation solution: 2.5 mg given three to four times a day by nebulization. To prepare a 2.5 mg solution, dilute 0.5 ml of the 0.5% solution for inhalation with 3 ml sterile normal saline. Dilution is not required with the unit dose solutions.
  • Maintenance to prevent exacerbations of bronchospasms: Two inhalations four times a day.
  • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm: Two inhalations 15 minutes prior to exercise.

Pharmacology/Pharmacokinetics:

Albuterol stimulates adenyl cyclase, the enzyme which catalyzes the formation of c- AMP (cyclic 3’5′ adenosine monophosphate) from ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This formation causes relaxation of bronchial, uterine, and vascular smooth muscle through stimulation of beta-2-adrenergic receptors. The liver metabolizes albuterol extensively to inactive compounds. and excretion occurs through the urine and feces. Minimal systemic absorption occurs following inhaled doses.

Drug Interactions:

Other sympathomimetics, tricyclic antidepres- sants, and MONOAMINE OXIDASE INHIBITORS may increase the toxicity of this medication. May worsen hypokalemia and/or ECG changes caused by non-potassium sparing diuretics. May decrease serum digoxin levels.

Contraindications/Precautions:

Contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to any component. Use caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, hypertension, hyper- thyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and in nursing mothers or pregnancy. Proventil Solution for inhalation can produce paradoxical bronchospasm, which can be life-threatening. If this occurs, discontinue use immediately and institute an alternate therapy. Pregnancy Category C.

Adverse Effects:

Nausea, vomiting, nervousness, headache, insomnia, tremor, dizziness, hypertension, tachycardia, and palpitations.

Patient Consultation:

  • Do not take more frequently than recom- mended.
  • If patients find that treatment with albuterol becomes less effective for symptomatic relief, their symptoms get worse, or they need to take the product more frequently than usual, advise them to seek medical attention immediately.

Aerosol Inhaler:

  • Avoid contact with the eyes.
  • Shake canister well before each inhalation.
  • Follow enclosed instructions for inhalation technique.
  • Clean mouthpiece at least once a week by removing the canister, running warm water through it for 30 seconds, and letting it air dry thoroughly.