Metaproterenol Sulfate

Pronunciation: MEH-tuh-pro-TEHR-uh-nahl SULL-fate
Class: Sympathomimetic

Trade Names

Metaproterenol Sulfate
- Tablet 10 mg
- Tablet 20 mg
- Syrup 10 mg/5 mL

Pharmacology

Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle through beta-2 receptor stimulation.

Slideshow: What is Asthma? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Less than 10% is absorbed intact.

Metabolism

Metabolized through sulfate conjugation in the GI tract. The major metabolite is metaproterenol-o-sulfate.

Indications and Usage

Treatment of bronchial asthma and reversible bronchospasm associated with bronchitis and emphysema.

Contraindications

Cardiac arrhythmias associated with tachycardia; hypersensitivity to any of the components.

Dosage and Administration

PO 20 mg 3 to 4 times daily.

PO 10 mg 3 to 4 times daily.

PO 10 mL 3 to 4 times daily.

PO 5 mL 3 to 4 times daily.

Storage/Stability

Store below 86°F (30°C). Protect from light.

Drug Interactions

Avoid concurrent use because of additive effects.

Pressor effects may be potentiated.

Exercise extreme care with coadministration.

Laboratory Test Interactions

None well documented.

Adverse Reactions

Cardiovascular

Tachycardia (17%); palpitations (4%); BP changes; cardiac arrest.

CNS

Nervousness (20%); tremor (17%); headache (7%); dizziness, insomnia (2%); drowsiness, fatigue (1%); shakiness/nervousness/tension, weakness.

Dermatologic

Rash.

GI

Nausea (4%); GI distress (3%); diarrhea, vomiting (1%).

Miscellaneous

Asthma exacerbation (2%); bad taste (1%).

Precautions

Pregnancy

Category C .

Lactation

Undetermined.

Children

Safety and effectiveness in children younger than 6 yr of age have not been established.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions can occur after administration.

Convulsive disorders

Use with caution; CNS stimulation may occur.

CV disorders

Toxic symptoms may occur. Use with caution in patients with ischemic heart disease, hypertension, or cardiac arrhythmias.

Diabetes mellitus

Dosage adjustment of insulin or oral hypoglycemic agent may be required.

Hyperthyroidism

Use with caution; CNS stimulation may occur.

Overdosage

Symptoms

Tremor, palpitations, angina, arrhythmias, tachycardia, elevated or decreased BP, seizures, nervousness, headache, dry mouth, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, insomnia.

Patient Information

• Advise patient to increase fluid intake to liquefy secretions.
• Instruct patient to report the following symptoms to health care provider: palpitations, nervousness, dizziness, shortness of breath, rash, asthma exacerbation.
• Advise patient to avoid smoke-filled rooms and smoking.
• Instruct patient not to use any OTC medications without consulting health care provider.

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