Ventolin Hfa

— THERAPEUTIC CATEGORIES —
  • Asthma/COPD

Ventolin Hfa Generic Name & Formulations

General Description

Albuterol 90mcg/inh; metered-dose aerosol; contains hydrofluoroalkane; CFC-free.

Pharmacological Class

Beta-2 agonist.

How Supplied

Inhalation aerosol (w. dose counter)—8g (60 inh), 18g (200 inh)

Manufacturer

Generic Availability

NO

Mechanism of Action

The pharmacological effects of beta2-adrenoceptor agonist drugs are at least in part attributable to stimulation of intracellular adenyl cyclase, the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic-3, 5-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). Increased cyclic AMP levels cause relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle.

Ventolin Hfa Indications

Indications

Bronchospasm.

Ventolin Hfa Dosage and Administration

Adults and Children

<4yrs: not established. ≥4yrs: 2 inh every 4–6hrs as needed; 1 inh every 4hrs may suffice. Exercise-induced bronchospasm: 2 inh 15–30mins before exercise.

Administration

Prime before using for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when the inhaler has been dropped. To prime, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray.

Nursing Considerations

Prime before using for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when the inhaler has been dropped. To prime, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray.

Ventolin Hfa Contraindications

Not Applicable

Ventolin Hfa Boxed Warnings

Not Applicable

Ventolin Hfa Warnings/Precautions

Warnings/Precautions

Avoid excessive use. Sensitivity to sympathomimetics. Discontinue if paradoxical bronchospasm, immediate hypersensitivity reactions, or cardiovascular effects occur. Cardiovascular disease (eg, coronary insufficiency, arrhythmias, hypertension). Diabetes. Hyperthyroidism. Seizure disorders. Reevaluate periodically. Elderly. Labor & delivery. Pregnancy: monitor closely. Nursing mothers: not recommended.

Ventolin Hfa Pharmacokinetics

See Literature

Ventolin Hfa Interactions

Interactions

Avoid MAOIs, tricyclics within 14 days (increased cardiovascular effects). Oral sympathomimetics: not recommended. Antagonized by β-blockers. Monitor digoxin. Caution with other drugs that may lower serum potassium (eg, diuretics).

Ventolin Hfa Adverse Reactions

Adverse Reactions

Throat irritation, viral respiratory infections, upper respiratory inflammation, cough, musculoskeletal pain; hypokalemia, paradoxical bronchospasm, cardiovascular effects, hypersensitivity reactions (eg, rash, urticaria, angioedema).

Ventolin Hfa Clinical Trials

See Literature

Ventolin Hfa Note

Not Applicable

Ventolin Hfa Patient Counseling

See Literature

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