Description
Generic
Indications
Salbutamol is indicated as a bronchodilator for use in Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema and other conditions associated with airways obstruction.
Pharmacology
Salbutamol is a selective beta2-adrenoceptor agonist. At therapeutic doses, it acts on the beta 2-adrenoceptors of bronchial smooth muscle, with little or no action on the ß1-adrenoceptors of cardiac muscle. Salbutamol provides short acting (4-6 hours) bronchodilatation with a fast onset (within 5 minutes) in reversible airways obstruction. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect on mast cells causing inhibition of release of bronchoconstrictor mediators including histamine, neutrophil chemotactive factor (NCF) and prostaglandin D2.
Administration & Dosage
OralChildren:
2-6 years: 2.5 ml syrup, 3-4 times daily
6-12 years: 5 ml syrup, 3-4 times daily
Over 12 years: 5-10 ml syrup, 3-4 times daily (2-4 mg tablet, 3-4 times daily)
Adults: 2-4 mg tablet, 3-4 times daily. Maximum single dose is 8 mg tablet.
Interaction
Possible decrease in anticoagulation effect with warfarin.
Contraindications
Salbutamol is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Salbutamol or any of its components.
Side Effect
Salbutamol may cause fine tremor of skeletal muscles (particularly the hands), palpitations and muscle cramps. Tachycardia, tenseness, headaches and peripheral vasodilatation have been reported after large doses.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: The drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk of the fetus.
Lactation: It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential of tumorigenecity shown for Salbutamol in some animal studies, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Precautions & Warnings
Salbutamol should be used with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease, occlusive vascular disorders, hypertension and aneurysms. Hypokalaemia associated with high doses of Salbutamol may result in increased susceptibility to digitalis-induced cardiac arrhythmia. Tachyphylaxis with resistance may occur with prolonged use of high dosage. Care is necessary when treating patients with diabetes mellitus or closed-angle glaucoma, and in those receiving antihypertensive therapy.
Therapeutic Class
Short-acting selective & β2-adrenoceptor stimulants
Storage Conditions
Protect from light and moisture by storing below 30°C. Keep the medicine out of children’s reach.
