Salbutamol (Inhaler)
Generic Details
Generic Name
Salbutamol Inhaler
Other Names
- Albuterol Inhaler
Drug Class
- Bronchodilator
- Beta-2 Agonist
Chemical Formula
C13H21NO3
Molecular Weight
239.31 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist
Indications
- Bronchial asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Exercise-induced bronchospasm
Common Dosage Forms
- Metered-dose inhaler
Typical Dosage
- 1-2 puffs every 4-6 hours as needed
Pediatric Dosage
- As determined by weight and severity of condition
Geriatric Dosage
- May require dosage adjustment based on renal function
Side Effects
- Tremors
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Palpitations
- Muscle cramps
- Increased heart rate
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to salbutamol
- Severe heart diseases
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Beta-blockers
- Diuretics
- MAO inhibitors
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe dizziness
- Seizures
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeats
Antidote for Overdose
- Intravenous cardioselective beta-blockers
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the lungs
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body
- Metabolism: Hepatic metabolism via conjugation
- Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor potassium levels in patients at risk of hypokalemia
- Avoid excessive use to prevent tolerance development
Warnings
- Do not exceed recommended dose
- Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen despite medication use
Others
- It is important to teach proper inhalation technique to ensure effective delivery of the medication