Albuterol

GENERIC NAME

Albuterol

TRADE NAME

Proventil, Ventolin

CLASS

Sympathetic Agonist

HOW SUPPLIED

Pre-mixed vial: 2.5 mg in 3 mL saline

INDICATIONS

• Based on patient condition, paramedics may consider any of the dosing regimens listed below.
• Wheezing or diminished breath sounds due to acute bronchospasm (Asthma, COPD)
• Bronchospasm associated with chronic bronchitis, emphysema, allergic reaction, or toxic inhalation

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to Albuterol

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Albuterol causes bronchodilation with minimal side effects. The duration of action is approximately 5 hours.

SIDE EFFECTS

• Palpitations
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nervousness
• Tremor
• Hypertension
• Arrhythmias
• Chest pain
• Nausea and vomiting

AUTHORIZATION

EMT: Standing Order

AEMT: Standing Order

Paramedic: Standing Order

DOSAGE

• All Patients:
  • 1st Dose: Albuterol 2.5 mg via nebulizer
  • 2nd Dose: Albuterol 2.5 mg and Atrovent 500 mcg via nebulizer
  • 3rd Dose: Albuterol 7.5 mg and Atrovent 500 mcg via nebulizer or BVM with in-line nebulizer