From the Guidelines
The recommended dosage of salbutamol nebulizer for adults is 2.5–5 mg every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then 2.5–10 mg every 1–4 hours as needed, or 10–15 mg/hour continuously, as stated in the most recent and highest quality study 1. The dosage of salbutamol nebulization can vary depending on the severity of the asthma exacerbation and the patient's response to treatment.
- For children, the dosage is typically 0.15 mg/kg (minimum dose 2.5 mg) every 20 minutes for 3 doses then 0.15–0.3 mg/kg up to 10 mg every 1–4 hours as needed, or 0.5 mg/kg/hour by continuous nebulization, as recommended by the guidelines 1.
- The nebulizer solution should be diluted to a minimum of 3 mL at a gas flow of 6–8 L/min for optimal delivery, and large volume nebulizers should be used for continuous administration 1.
- Salbutamol works as a bronchodilator by stimulating beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, which relaxes bronchial smooth muscle and improves airflow.
- Side effects may include tremor, tachycardia, and hypokalemia, especially with higher or frequent doses, and patients should be monitored for heart rate, respiratory status, and potential side effects during administration.
- The nebulization should be continued until the solution is completely used, typically taking 5-15 minutes per treatment.
- It is also important to note that the British Thoracic Society guidelines recommend nebulised salbutamol (2.5–5 mg) or terbutaline (5–10 mg) or ipratropium bromide (500 µg) should be given 4–6 hourly for 24–48 hours or until the patient is improving clinically 1.
From the Research
Dosage of Salbutamol Nebulizer
- The dosage of salbutamol nebulizer is typically 2.5 mg per treatment 2.
- In some cases, the dosage may be higher, such as 400 microg 3 or 600 microg 4.
- The dosage may be administered through a jet nebulizer, with multiple doses given at intervals of 20-30 minutes 2, 4.
- The specific dosage and administration schedule may vary depending on the individual patient's needs and medical condition.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Salbutamol nebulizer may be used in combination with other medications, such as ipratropium bromide, to provide greater bronchodilation 2, 4, 5.
- The combination of salbutamol and ipratropium bromide may be more effective than salbutamol alone in treating acute severe asthma 2 or stable COPD 5.
- The optimal dosage and combination of medications may vary depending on the individual patient's response and medical condition 3, 4, 5.