Azmasol Bexicap

Indications

Azmasol is prescribed as a bronchodilator for managing conditions like:

• Asthma
• Chronic Bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Other respiratory issues related to airway obstruction.

Pharmacology

Salbutamol, a synthetic sympathomimetic compound, primarily activates beta-2 adrenergic receptors. This stimulation leads to bronchodilation by relaxing the smooth muscles in the bronchial airways, significantly improving lung function as demonstrated through spirometric tests.

Dosage & Administration

Salbutamol Tablets or Syrup

• Children:
  • Ages 2-6: 2.5 ml syrup, 3-4 times daily.
  • Ages 6-12: 5 ml syrup, 3-4 times daily.
  • Over 12: 5-10 ml syrup or 2-4 mg tablet, 3-4 times daily.
• Adults:
  • 2-4 mg tablet, 3-4 times daily (Max: 8 mg single dose).

Salbutamol Respirator Solution
Administer with a nebulizer under physician supervision. The solution must not be injected or ingested.

• Method 1 (Intermittent Administration):
  • Adults & Elderly: 0.5-1 ml, diluted with sterile saline (2-4 ml), inhaled up to 4 times daily.
  • Children under 12: 0.5 ml diluted with 2-4 ml saline, may be increased to 1 ml if needed, repeated up to 4 times a day.
• Method 2 (Continuous Administration):
  • 1-2 ml diluted to 100 ml saline, administered via a nebulizer. If hypoventilation occurs, oxygen should be added.

Salbutamol Injection

• Adults: For continuous intravenous infusion, dilute 5 ml of Salbutamol (1000 mcg/ml) in 500 ml saline or dextrose solution. Infusion rates: 3-20 mcg/min, adjustable every 15-30 minutes.
• Children (<18 years): Dosage for pediatric patients is not yet established.

Salbutamol Inhalation Capsule

• Adults: For bronchospasm relief, one or two capsules (200 mcg) inhaled every 4-6 hours. Maximum dosage: 2 capsules.
• Children (4+ years): One inhalation capsule for acute relief or before exercise, 3-4 times daily, with possible dose increase to two capsules.

Exercise-Induced Asthma

• Adults: 400 mcg
• Children: 200 mcg, 15-30 minutes before physical activity.

Side Effects

Azmasol may cause mild tremors (especially in the hands), palpitations, and muscle cramps. Higher doses may lead to headaches, tension, tachycardia, and peripheral vasodilation.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Use during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks. It’s unclear whether Salbutamol passes into breast milk. Due to potential tumorigenicity observed in some animal studies, weigh the benefits of nursing against the importance of the drug.

Precautions & Warnings

Use Azmasol with caution in individuals with hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular conditions, vascular disorders, or hypertension. Prolonged high-dose use may cause tachyphylaxis or resistance. Monitor patients with diabetes, glaucoma, or those on antihypertensive therapy closely.

Overdose Effects

Symptoms of overdose include chest pain, headache, nausea, and tremors. Beta-blockers may help, but use them cautiously in patients with a history of bronchospasm.

Therapeutic Class

Short-acting selective beta-2 adrenoceptor stimulants.

Storage Conditions

Store at temperatures below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.