Asthalin (Salbutamol) MDI Dosage in Children with Asthma
For children 4 years and older with asthma, the recommended Asthalin (Salbutamol) MDI dosage is 2 puffs (90 mcg/puff) every 4-6 hours as needed for relief of bronchospasm. 1
Standard Dosing for Maintenance and Relief
- For children 4 years and older: 2 puffs every 4-6 hours as needed for bronchospasm relief 1
- For exercise-induced bronchospasm prevention: 2 puffs 15-30 minutes before exercise 1
- Increasing use or lack of expected response may indicate worsening asthma control requiring reassessment 1
Dosing During Asthma Exacerbations
Mild to Moderate Exacerbations:
- 4-8 puffs every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then every 1-4 hours as needed 2
- MDI with valved holding chamber (spacer) is as effective as nebulized therapy when used with proper technique 2
Severe Exacerbations:
- 4-8 puffs every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then every 1-4 hours as needed 2
- Consider adding ipratropium bromide (4-8 puffs every 20 minutes for up to 3 hours) for severe exacerbations 2
Administration Technique
- Use a valved holding chamber (spacer) for all children to improve medication delivery 2
- For children under 4 years, a face mask should be attached to the spacer 2
- Proper cleaning of the mouthpiece is essential to prevent medication buildup and blockage 1
- Wash and dry the mouthpiece thoroughly at least once a week 1
Important Considerations
- Increasing need for Asthalin (more than twice weekly) indicates inadequate asthma control and may require adjustment of controller medications 3
- During exacerbations, MDI with spacer can be as effective as nebulizer therapy when used at appropriate doses (usually 1/4th of nebule dosing) 4
- For children under 4 years of age, safety and efficacy data are limited 1
Monitoring and Follow-up
- Monitor for side effects including tachycardia, tremor, and hyperglycemia, especially with higher or frequent dosing 5
- If symptoms worsen despite proper use of medication, seek immediate medical attention 3
- Regular follow-up is essential to assess response to therapy and adjust treatment as needed 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Overreliance on rescue medication (Asthalin) without addressing underlying inflammation 3
- Poor inhaler technique leading to inadequate drug delivery 3
- Failure to use a spacer device, especially in young children 2
- Not recognizing when to escalate treatment during worsening symptoms 2
Remember that Asthalin (Salbutamol) is primarily a rescue medication for symptom relief. If a child requires frequent use, this indicates the need for review of their controller medication regimen and overall asthma management plan 3.