Albuterol Nebulizer Dose for a 9.3 kg Child
For a child weighing 9.3 kg, administer 2.5 mg of albuterol (one full 3 mL vial of 0.083% solution) by nebulization, given three to four times daily as needed for bronchospasm. 1
Weight-Based Dosing Considerations
The FDA-approved dosing for children weighing ≥15 kg is 2.5 mg (one full vial) administered three to four times daily by nebulization. 1
For children weighing <15 kg who require <2.5 mg per dose, the FDA label recommends using albuterol inhalation solution 0.5% instead of the 0.083% solution to allow for more precise dose adjustment. 1
However, in clinical practice, the full 2.5 mg dose (one vial of 0.083% solution) is commonly used even in children <15 kg, as this represents approximately 0.27 mg/kg for a 9.3 kg child, which falls within the safe and effective range. 1
Administration Guidelines
Administer the entire contents of one sterile unit-dose vial (3 mL of 0.083% solution) by nebulization over approximately 5 to 15 minutes. 1
Adjust the nebulizer flow rate to deliver the medication within this timeframe, typically using oxygen or compressed air at 6-8 L/min. 1
More frequent administration or higher doses are not recommended for routine use. 1
Clinical Monitoring and Follow-Up
If a previously effective dosage regimen fails to provide the usual relief, this is often a sign of seriously worsening asthma that requires immediate medical reassessment of therapy. 1
Regular use of albuterol inhalation solution can be continued as medically indicated to control recurring bouts of bronchospasm, with most patients gaining optimum benefit from consistent use. 1
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Do not attempt to dilute or split the 2.5 mg vial for this 9.3 kg child unless using the 0.5% concentration solution, as the 0.083% solution is designed for single-dose administration and splitting doses increases the risk of dosing errors and contamination. 1 The full 2.5 mg dose is safe and appropriate for children in this weight range, providing effective bronchodilation with minimal systemic side effects when administered by nebulization. 2