| Class: |
Sympathomimetic |
| Route: |
Inhalation (via nebulizer) |
Adult and Pediatric Dose: |
- 2.5mg given via nebulizer over 5-15 minutes – standing order
If no improvement after the first dose
- Personnel may administer two additional doses
- Combine 2nd and 3rd doses with Ipratropium (Atrovent®) 0.5 mg. - standing order.
- For status asthmaticus, medics may administer the albuterol and ipratropium combination at each of the three doses
- BioTel must authorize additional doses beyond three
|
| Drug Action: |
Bronchodilation (beta-two adrenergic) |
| Onset: |
5 - 15 minutes after inhalation |
| Duration: |
3 - 4 hours after inhalation |
| Indications: |
Bronchospasm associated with:
- Asthma and COPD
- Chemical toxins: nerve agents, cyanide, blistering agents, choking agents
- Allergic reaction unresponsive to epinephrine and diphenhydramine
- CHF - BIOTEL AUTHORIZATION ONLY
|
| Precautions: |
Known heart disease |
| Side Effects: |
- Restlessness
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia - palpitations
|
| Contraindications: |
Pregnancy, except in life-threatening situations |