Actolin 4
Form: Tablet
Strength: 4mg
Generic Name: Salbutamol
Company: Globe Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 0.4 (Tablet)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Actolin 4 is used to treat breathing problems caused by diseases that block the airways, like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), when one bronchodilator is not enough.
Pharmacology
Ipratropium Bromide is absorbed quickly after inhalation. Less than 10% of Actolin 4 reaches the bloodstream, and Actolin 4 is mainly excreted through urine. Actolin 4 doesn’t cross into the brain. Its half-life (time Actolin 4 takes to reduce by half in the body) is about 1.6 hours.
Salbutamol Sulphate is also quickly absorbed, reaching its highest level in the blood within 3 hours. Actolin 4 stays in the body for about 24 hours, with a half-life of 4 hours. Actolin 4 can cross into the brain but only a small amount.
When both Ipratropium Bromide and Salbutamol Sulphate are used together, they work locally on the lungs without increasing the amount absorbed into the bloodstream.
Dosage & Administration
Adults (including elderly): Use one 3 ml ampoule in the nebulizer four times a day. If needed, two extra treatments may be used each day.
Children: The doctor will decide the correct dose.
If breathing problems suddenly worsen and additional inhalations don’t help, seek immediate medical help.
Interaction
Taking other beta-agonists, anticholinergics, or xanthine derivatives together can increase side effects.
Using this medication with diuretics, xanthine derivatives, or steroids may increase the risk of low potassium levels, which could cause heart problems, so potassium levels should be checked.
Beta-blockers may reduce the bronchodilating effect of this medication.
This medication should be used cautiously with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants, as they may enhance its effect.
Inhalation of certain anesthetics can increase the risk of heart problems with beta-agonists.
Contraindications
Actolin 4 is not suitable for patients with hypertrophic obstructive tachyarrhythmia or a history of allergic reactions to atropine or its derivatives, or any other ingredients in the product.
Side Effects
Common side effects include shaking hands, nervousness, and sometimes fast heart rate, dizziness, palpitations, or headaches, especially in sensitive people.
Long-term use or high doses may lead to low potassium levels, which could cause heart problems.
Other possible side effects include coughing, irritation in the mouth or throat, and bronchospasm (wheezing or tightness in the chest). Less common effects include nausea, sweating, weakness, and muscle cramps.
Serious effects can include low blood pressure, increased heart rate, or abnormal heart rhythms, especially with higher doses.
Some people may experience mood changes or confusion.
Dry mouth and voice changes are the most common non-respiratory side effects from the anticholinergic component. Rarely, eye problems (like pupil dilation, increased eye pressure, or eye pain) may occur if the medication gets in the eyes.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Actolin 4 is classified as pregnancy category C. Animal studies showed potential harm to the baby, but there is no clear evidence in human pregnancies. Actolin 4 should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Both Salbutamol Sulphate and Ipratropium Bromide may pass into breast milk, but Actolin 4 is unclear if they affect the baby. Caution is advised when using this medication while breastfeeding.
Precautions & Warnings
If breathing problems suddenly worsen, seek immediate medical help. Rare allergic reactions like rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing may occur after using this medication.
Overdose Effects
Overdose symptoms are mostly related to Salbutamol and may include fast heart rate, chest pain, high or low blood pressure, palpitations, tremors, or unusual heart rhythms.
If an overdose occurs, sedatives or tranquilizers may be used to treat the symptoms. In severe cases, intensive care may be required. Beta-blockers may help counteract the overdose effects, but care should be taken as they can worsen breathing problems.
Therapeutic Class
Combined bronchodilators.
Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
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