From the Guidelines
Albuterol (salbutamol), ipratropium, and metaproterenol are available bronchodilators for use in aerosol machines.
Available Bronchodilators
- Albuterol (salbutamol): can be delivered through a nebulizer or metered dose inhaler 1
- Ipratropium: can be delivered through a nebulizer 1
- Metaproterenol: can be delivered through a nebulizer 1
Administration
Bronchodilators can be administered using a metered dose inhaler with a spacer device, which provides clinical effectiveness equal to that of nebulizer machines 1. Improvised spacers made with a plastic bottle or disposable paper cup can also be used 1.
Safety
Bronchodilator administration is safe, with no clinically significant change in heart rate, blood pressure, serum potassium, tremor, headache, nervousness, weakness, palpitation, or dry mouth 1. However, adverse effects such as tachycardia, arrhythmias, tremor, dizziness, and a decrease in serum potassium concentrations have been reported 1.
From the Research
Available Bronchodilators
The following bronchodilators are available for use in aerosol machines:
- β2-agonists 2, 3, 4, 5
- Antimuscarinic agents (also known as anticholinergics) 2, 3, 4, 5
- Methylxanthines (such as theophylline) 3, 4, 5
- Xanthines 3
Specific Examples of Bronchodilators
Some specific examples of bronchodilators that can be used in aerosol machines include:
- Short-acting beta-agonists (e.g. salbutamol, albuterol) 5
- Long-acting beta-agonists (e.g. indacaterol, olodaterol, vilanterol) 3
- Short-acting anticholinergics (e.g. ipratropium) 5
- Long-acting anticholinergics (e.g. tiotropium, glycopyrronium bromide, aclidinium bromide, umeclidinium bromide) 3, 5
Administration of Bronchodilators
It is essential to use the correct administration technique when using aerosol bronchodilators, as incorrect use can lead to reduced therapeutic efficacy 6. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the proper technique for using aerosol machines to ensure effective treatment of patients with obstructive lung diseases.