Pirbuterol Acetate
Pronouncation: (pihr-BYOO-tuh-role ASS-uh-TATE)Class: Sympathomimetic
Trade Names:
Maxair Autohaler
- Aerosol 0.2 mg/actuation
Pharmacology
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Feedback for Pirbuterol Acetate
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Produces bronchodilation by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle through beta-2 receptor stimulation.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed following aerosol administration.
Elimination
51% of the dose is excreted in the urine plus its sulfate conjugate. T ½ and plasma is approximately 2 h (oral).
Onset
5 min (inhalation).
Duration
5 h (inhalation).
Indications and Usage
Prevention and treatment of reversible bronchospasm associated with asthma or other obstructive pulmonary diseases.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to drug components; cardiac arrhythmias associated with tachycardia.
Dosage and Administration
Adults and Children 12 yr of age and olderInhalation 1 to 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 h; not to exceed 12 inhalations/day.
Storage/Stability
Store at room temperature.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressantsMay increase the effects of pirbuterol.
Laboratory Test Interactions
None well documented.
Adverse Reactions
Cardiovascular
Palpitations; tachycardia; BP changes; chest tightness/pain/discomfort; angina; arrhythmias/skipped beats.
CNS
Tremor; anxiety; confusion; fatigue; dizziness; nervousness; headache; weakness; hyperactivity/hyperkinesia/excitement; insomnia.
EENT
Dry nose; throat irritation.
GI
GI distress; dry mouth; diarrhea; nausea/vomiting.
Respiratory
Cough; throat irritation.
Miscellaneous
Flushing; anorexia/appetite loss; unusual/bad taste; taste/smell change.
Precautions
Pregnancy
Category C .
Lactation
Undetermined.
Children
Safety and efficacy in children 12 yr of age and younger not established.
Elderly
Lower doses may be required.
Labor and Delivery
May inhibit uterine contractions and delay preterm labor.
CV effects
Toxic symptoms in patients with CV disorders may occur.
CNS effects
CNS stimulation may occur; use cautiously in patients with history of seizure or hyperthyroidism.
Diabetes
Dosage adjustment of insulin or oral hypoglycemic agent may be required.
Excessive use
Paradoxical bronchospasm and cardiac arrest have been associated with excessive inhalant use.
Hypokalemia
Decreases in potassium levels have occurred.
Tolerance
If previously effective dose fails to provide relief therapy may need to be reassessed.
Overdosage
Symptoms
Tremor, palpitations, tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, anginal pain, hypokalemia, seizures.
Patient Information
- Advise patient to take drug early in day to prevent insomnia.
- Explain that implementing therapy in morning and after meals may reduce fatigue and improve lung ventilation.
- Encourage patient to increase fluid intake to help liquify secretions.
- Tell patient to report the following symptoms to health care provider: Dizziness, chest pain, palpitations, muscle spasms, headache, difficult urination, dyspnea or nervous tremor.
- Explain that if no relief is obtained from normal daily dose, call health care provider instead of increasing dose. Also if more than 3 aerosol treatments are needed in 24 h, notify health care provider.
- Tell patient to wait at least 1 to 2 min before administering second inhalation.
- Instruct patient that regular, consistent use of medication is required for maximum benefits.
- Explain benefits of and demonstrate technique for postural drainage and chest vibration.
- Emphasize that it is important to avoid getting aerosol medication in eyes.
- Tell patient to avoid smoking, smoke-filled rooms, and persons with respiratory infections.
- Explain how to use and care for inhalers and any other respiratory equipment.
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Asthma -- Maintenance, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease -- Maintenance, Asthma -- Acute, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease -- Acute








