Beta2-Adrenergic Stimulants
Beta-adrenergic agonists can be broadly categorized as having beta1 and beta2 receptor activity. This section describes the toxicity of beta2-selective agonists that are commonly available for oral use: albuterol (salbutamol), metaproterenol, and terbutaline (Table II–16). Clenbuterol, a potent beta2 agonist, is not approved for human use in the United States but is abused for its anabolic effects.
Table II-16 Beta2-Selective Agonists
Table II-16 Beta2-Selective Agonists
Drug | Oral Adult Dose (mg/d) | Oral Pediatric Dose (mg/kg/d) | Duration (h) |
---|---|---|---|
Albuterol | 8–16 | 0.3–0.8 | 4–8 |
Clenbuterol | 40–80 mcg | 1 mcg/kg per dose | 8–12 |
Metaproterenol | 60–80 | 0.9–2.0 |