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Salbutamol hypokalaemia with high use — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory TherapeuticsSalbutamol hypokalaemia with high useGPhC CRA

A patient with acute asthma symptoms has used repeated salbutamol nebulisers in urgent care. They also take bendroflumethiazide. What monitoring is required?

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Correct answer: A — Monitor serum potassium if high-dose beta2 agonist treatment continues

High-dose beta2 agonists can lower serum potassium, and the effect can be additive with medicines such as thiazide diuretics. Hypokalaemia can increase arrhythmia risk, especially in acutely unwell patients. Potassium monitoring is therefore clinically relevant.

Reference: BNF