Name: Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)
Class: b2 Agonist
Mech.: More selective than terbutaline for b2 receptors.
Absorption: Aerosol inhalation ® bronchodilation w/in 15 min. Effects last 3-4 hr. Nebulized inhalation, oral.
Dist.:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Less likely w/inhalation. Tachycardia, arrhythmia, MI. risk w/underlying CV disease or use of MAO inhib. or tricyclics. Skeletal muscle tremor, restlessness, anxiety, apprehension. ¯ arterial O2 tension. High doses may cause myocard. necrosis, ¯ plasma K+, plasma glucose. hyperglycemia in diabetics, ¯ K+ in cardiac patients (esp. those taking cardiac glycosides and diuretics).
Utility: Treat asthma.
Special Features: b2s are DOCs for sympathomimetic treatment of asthma. Metered inhaler approved for kids ³ 4 y.o.