Drug Card Albuterol (Ventolin)

Albuterol, also known by the trade name Proventil, is a bronchodilator primarily used to prevent airway obstruction in conditions like asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). It works by binding to Beta2 adrenergic receptors in the airways, which leads to the relaxation of the smooth muscles in these areas. As for nursing considerations, it is important to be aware that Albuterol may decrease the effectiveness of Beta Blockers. Caution is advised for patients with heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma, and seizure disorders. Overuse of Albuterol inhalers can lead to bronchospasm. Nurses should monitor patients for chest pain and palpitations and be aware that Albuterol can decrease digoxin levels. This nursing cheatsheet from Nursing.com will help you learn more about Albuterol's uses, action, therapeutic class (Bronchodilator), and pharmacologic class (Adrenergic), along with crucial nursing considerations​​.