Albuterol Sulfate 2.5 mg/3 mL Nebulizer Dosing Frequency
For routine maintenance therapy, albuterol sulfate 2.5 mg/3 mL (0.083%) solution should be administered three to four times daily by nebulization. 1
Standard Maintenance Dosing
The FDA-approved dosing for adults and children weighing ≥15 kg is 2.5 mg (one complete 3 mL vial) administered 3-4 times daily via nebulization. 1
Each treatment should be delivered over approximately 5-15 minutes with appropriate nebulizer flow rate adjustment. 1
This regular dosing schedule is designed to control recurring bronchospasm and provide optimum benefit from routine use. 1
Acute Exacerbation Dosing (Different Context)
While the question asks about routine dosing, it's critical to distinguish this from acute exacerbation management, where dosing is dramatically different:
For acute asthma exacerbations, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends 2.5-5 mg every 20 minutes for 3 doses initially, then every 1-4 hours as needed. 2, 3
In severe exacerbations requiring continuous nebulization, adults may receive 10-15 mg/hour continuously. 2, 3
After the initial intensive phase, moderate exacerbations require dosing every 60 minutes, while severe cases may need hourly administration or continuous therapy. 2, 4
Important Clinical Caveats
If a previously effective 3-4 times daily regimen fails to provide usual relief, this signals seriously worsening asthma requiring immediate medical reassessment rather than simply increasing frequency. 1
More frequent administration or higher doses than the standard 3-4 times daily are not recommended for routine maintenance therapy. 1
The distinction between maintenance therapy (3-4 times daily) and acute rescue therapy (every 20 minutes to every 1-4 hours) is critical for appropriate management. 1, 2