Introduction

• Beta-2 adrenergic agonist, used to treat asthma in man.
• Signs: tachycardia and muscle tremor.
• Diagnosis: history, clinical signs.
• Treatment: induce vomiting, treat symptoms.
• Prognosis: good.

Pathogenesis

Etiology

• Dog consuming an asthmatic human's inhaler.

Pathophysiology

• Salbutamol is considered to be predominantly a beta-2 agonist (relaxation of bronchial, uterine and vascular smooth muscles). Most adverse effects are dose related and those which would be expressed with sympathomimetic agents including increased heart rate, tremors, CNS excitement (nervousness) and dizziness.

• Salbutamol is used principally in dogs for its effects on bronchial smooth muscle to alleviate bronchospasm or cough.

Timecourse

• Signs develop within 0.5-8 hours of ingestion.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Outcomes