SALBUTAMOL (ALBUTEROL) AND RELATED BRONCHODILATORS AND THEOPHYLLINE
The concurrent use of theophylline and beta2 agonist bronchodilators such as salbutamol is a useful option in the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but potentiation of some adverse reactions can occur. The most serious of these are hypokalaemia and tachycardia, particularly with high-dose theophylline. Some patients may show a significant fall in serum theophylline levels if given oral or intravenous salbutamol or intravenous isoprenaline (isoproterenol).
Potassium should be monitored, particularly in acutely unwell patients receiving high-dose intravenous treatment. The CSM in the UK particularly recommends monitoring potassium levels in those with severe asthma as the hypokalaemic effects of beta2 agonists can be potentiated by theophylline, corticosteroids, diuretics and hypoxia.
Potassium should be monitored, particularly in acutely unwell patients receiving high-dose intravenous treatment. The CSM in the UK particularly recommends monitoring potassium levels in those with severe asthma as the hypokalaemic effects of beta2 agonists can be potentiated by theophylline, corticosteroids, diuretics and hypoxia.