Albuterol sulfate dosage
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Albuterol Sulfate Dosage: Insights from Recent Research
Introduction to Albuterol Sulfate
Albuterol sulfate is a widely used beta-2-adrenergic bronchodilator for the treatment of bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is available in various forms, including tablets, syrups, metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), and nebulizers. This article synthesizes recent research on the dosage and efficacy of albuterol sulfate across different delivery methods and patient demographics.
Dosage in Pediatric Asthma Patients
Extended-Release Tablets
Extended-release albuterol sulfate tablets have been studied for their efficacy in children aged 6 to 12 years. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 157 patients demonstrated that a dosage of 4 mg twice daily, increasing up to 12 mg twice daily, significantly improved pulmonary function and reduced asthma symptoms without serious adverse events . This suggests that extended-release tablets can be a safe and effective option for pediatric asthma management.
Dosage in Adult Asthma Patients
Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs)
Two Phase II studies, ASPEN and ANTORA, evaluated the efficacy of albuterol sulfate delivered via a new Co-suspension Delivery™ Technology MDI. The studies found that doses of 90 µg and 180 µg were effective and comparable to Proventil® in improving FEV1, with no new safety concerns identified . This supports the use of 180 µg as an optimal dose for further clinical trials.
Comparison with Conventional CFC Inhalers
A cumulative dose response study compared HFA-134a albuterol sulfate with conventional CFC albuterol. Both formulations showed similar efficacy and safety profiles, with no significant differences in FEV1 or safety parameters at any dose level . This indicates that HFA-134a is a viable alternative to CFC albuterol.
Combination Therapies
Nebulized Albuterol and Magnesium Sulfate
A study comparing nebulized albuterol alone to a combination with magnesium sulfate in adults with mild-to-moderate asthma exacerbations found no additional benefit from the combination therapy . This suggests that albuterol alone is sufficient for treating mild-to-moderate exacerbations.
Ipratropium Bromide and Albuterol
In patients with COPD, a combination of nebulized ipratropium bromide and albuterol was found to provide better bronchodilation than either drug alone, without increasing side effects . This combination therapy can be more effective for COPD management.
Bioavailability and Pharmacokinetics
A study on the bioavailability of different albuterol formulations (tablets and syrup) found that all forms were rapidly absorbed, with comparable maximum drug concentrations and elimination half-lives . This indicates that different oral formulations of albuterol sulfate are equally effective in terms of bioavailability.
Parenteral Administration
Research comparing intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous routes of albuterol administration found similar efficacy in improving FEV1 and comparable metabolic side effects, such as changes in serum potassium and glucose levels . This highlights the flexibility of albuterol administration routes in acute settings.
Conclusion
Albuterol sulfate is a versatile bronchodilator with various effective delivery methods. Extended-release tablets are suitable for pediatric patients, while MDIs and nebulizers are effective for both asthma and COPD in adults. Combination therapies with ipratropium bromide can enhance efficacy in COPD, and different oral formulations offer similar bioavailability. Understanding these dosage forms and their efficacy can help optimize treatment plans for patients with respiratory conditions.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic