Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Albuterol inhaler poisoning signs and treatment in dogs
By Meroni, Emiliana R et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary emergency and critical care (San Antonio, Tex. : 2001)·2021·Department of Emergency and Critical Care, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Retrospective evaluation of albuterol inhalant exposure in dogs: 36 cases (2007-2017).
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 36 dogs were brought to the vet after chewing on albuterol inhalers, which can cause serious health issues. Most of the dogs showed signs like a fast heart rate and low potassium levels, with many needing hospitalization for treatment. Vets used beta blockers to help manage the heart issues caused by the albuterol exposure. Fortunately, the dogs responded well to treatment and had a good chance of recovery, with most being discharged after a short stay.
People also search for: dog albuterol inhaler exposure symptoms · fast heart rate in dogs treatment · low potassium in dogs causes
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical features, clinicopathological features, treatment, and outcome of dogs presented for albuterol exposure. DESIGN: Retrospective case series from January 2007 to December 2017. SETTING: Tertiary veterinary facility. ANIMALS: Thirty-six client-owned dogs presenting for known or suspected albuterol exposure secondary to chewing on albuterol metered-dose inhalers (MDIs). INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: All dogs presented with clinical signs attributable to albuterol exposure. The most common physical examination abnormality was sinus tachycardia, noted in 34 of 36 (94%) dogs. Twenty-seven patients (75%) were admitted to the hospital for therapy, with a median length of hospitalization of 20.5 hours (16.75-24.5). Thirty-two of 36 dogs had serum electrolytes evaluated at admission, with 22 of 32 (69%) presenting with hypokalemia ([K+] < 3.62 mmol/L]). Hyperlactatemia ([lactate] > 2.80 mmol/L) was noted in 23 of 28 (82%) dogs. A negative correlation was found between serum lactate and potassium (r = -0.64, r = 0.40, P = 0.0003). Hyperglycemia ([glucose] > 6.44 mmol/L) was noted in 20 of 30 (67%) dogs. Beta antagonist therapy was utilized in 20 of 36 (56%) of dogs. CONCLUSIONS: Although uncommon, albuterol intoxication can lead to significant clinical and electrolyte abnormalities. Albuterol-induced hypokalemia and associated tachyarrhythmias can be successfully managed, and albuterol intoxication has an excellent prognosis for survival to discharge. A minimum database should be evaluated in all dogs presenting for suspected albuterol exposure, with lactate and glucose monitored carefully in dogs with moderate or severe hypokalemia given the correlation found.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33118712/