What it means
A bronchodilator used by SUBQ injection or tablet for asthma and bronchospasm. In obstetrics it is sometimes given SUBQ for a short time to slow preterm contractions or to relax the uterus. It causes a fast heart rate, tremor, nervousness, high blood glucose and low potassium. Injected use for more than 48 to 72 hours, or oral use, to stop preterm labor is warned against because of serious heart effects in the mother.
For the nurse
Check the client's heart rate and blood pressure before each dose, and the fetal heart rate in pregnancy. Report a maternal pulse above the limit set in the order, chest pain or shortness of breath. Watch the blood glucose and potassium.
At a glance
| Drug class | bronchodilator (beta-2 adrenergic agonist); tocolytic |
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Related terms
hypokalemia
A blood potassium level below normal, under 3.5 mEq/L.
tachycardia
A heart rate faster than normal; in an adult, more than 100 beats per minute.
uterine contraction
A tightening and then relaxing of the muscle of the uterus (womb), as happens during labor.
wheezing
A high-pitched, whistling sound made as air moves through narrowed airways.