Effect of Nebulized Albuterol on Serum Potassium and Cardiac Rhythm in Patients with Asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Author(s): Mccoy, R. A., West, R., Stapczynski, J. S., Clifton, G. D.

Journal/Book: Pharmacotherapy. 1994; 14: New England Medical Center, Box 806, 171 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111. Pharmacotherapy Publications Inc. 729-733.

Abstract: Study Objective. To evaluate the metabolic and cardiopulmonary effects of nebulized albuterol in patients suffering moderate to severe exacerbations of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Design. Open-label, prospective study. Setting. The emergency department of a university medical center. Patients. Ten patients with moderate to severe exacerbation of asthma. Interventions. Each patients received nebulized albuterol 2.5 mg for approximately 10 minutes. Measurements and Main Results. Serum potassium, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, and pulmonary function were measured before treatment and every 15 minutes for 2 hours after treatment. Serum potassium concentrations decreased significantly (p<0.05) within 75 minutes after initiation of treatment, from a baseline value of 4.5 +/- 0.6 mEq/L (range 3.5-5.5 mEq/L) to 3.7 +/- 0.5 mEq/L (range 2.8-4.4 mEq/L) at the end of the collection period (120 minutes). Forced expiratory volume in 1 second significantly increased over time in patients with asthma (p<0.05). No statically significant changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or corrected QT intervals occurred. Pre-emergency department use of a beta2-agonist by metered-dose inhaler was not associated with a decreased serum potassium on admission. Conclusions. Nebulized beta2-agonists are generally efficacious and safe in patients with acute bronchospasms. However, close monitoring of serum electrolytes, heart rate, and rhythm in patients at risk (elderly, those with pre-existing cardiac disease) is advised before these individuals receive repeat doses by continuous aerosol administration.

Note: Article GR Dickens, Univ Kentucky, Albert B Chandler Med Ctr, Div Resp Care, Room C-111, 800 Rose St, Lexington, KY 40536 USA

Keyword(s): BETA-AGONISTS; BRONCHIAL-ASTHMA; SALBUTAMOL; THEOPHYLLINE; TERBUTALINE; MORTALITY; DEATH

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