| Mechanism | Stimulates β2 receptors in the airways generating cAMP * ↓ intracellular calcium - bronchodilation * prevents mast cell degranulation * (inhibits uterine smooth muscle contraction in premature labour) |
| Typical Dose | 2.5-5mg (nebulised) |
| Indications | * asthma * COPD with reversible component * Premature labour |
| Contra-indications | * Hyperthyroidism * Cardio disease - Arrhythmias * HTN * Caution in diabetes (risk of DKA in IV) |
| Side-effects | Common: tremor, tachycardia Rarely: headache, palpitations, hypokalaemia, muscle cramps, insomnia |
| Interactions | * Corticosteroids: high doses of both increase risk of hypokalaemia * Loop/Thiazide diuretics: increased risk of hypokalaemia * Theophylline: increased risk of hypokalaemia |
| Elimination | |
| Additional Notes | Plasma potassium needs to be monitored if given severe asthma. <8y/o need a spacer/nebuliser. Preferred to ipratropium |