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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › ADRENERGICS FOR SYSTEMIC USE › Selective beta-2-adrenoreceptor agonists
bambuterol
R03CC12
Forms & Strengths
- Oral tablets 10 mg
- Oral tablets 20 mg
Adult Dosing
- Bambuterol 10 mg once daily; increase to 20 mg once daily if needed for symptom control
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 5–12 yr: 5 mg once daily (max 10 mg)
- Children ≥12 yr: same as adult – 10 mg once daily, may increase to 20 mg
Indications
- Maintenance therapy of asthma in patients ≥12 yr
- Add‑on therapy for COPD when β2‑agonist needed
- Prevention of exercise‑induced bronchospasm
Mechanism of Action
- Prodrug of terbutaline; converted by plasma cholinesterases to active β2‑adrenergic agonist
- Stimulates bronchial smooth‑muscle β2 receptors → ↑cAMP → bronchodilation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to bambuterol, terbutaline or other β2‑agonists
- Severe coronary artery disease or recent myocardial infarction
- Significant tachyarrhythmias, pheochromocytoma, thyrotoxicosis
- Acute narrow‑angle glaucoma
Adverse Reactions
- Tremor
- Palpitations or tachycardia
- Headache
- Nausea/vomiting
- Hypokalemia
- Hyperglycemia
- Muscle cramps
- Insomnia
- Paradoxical bronchospasm (rare)
Drug Interactions
- Non‑selective MAO inhibitors may potentiate sympathomimetic effects
- β‑blockers (especially non‑selective) antagonize bronchodilation and may precipitate bronchospasm
- Other sympathomimetics → additive cardiovascular effects
- Diuretics → increased risk of hypokalemia
- Xanthines (e.g., theophylline) → additive CNS stimulation
- Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., neostigmine) reduce conversion to terbutaline
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use