What is albuterol (Proventil) used to treat?

Choice A reason: This is not a symptom that would indicate withholding a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker. Hyperglycemia is a high level of glucose in the blood, which can be caused by diabetes or other conditions. Nonselective beta-adrenergic blockers do not affect blood glucose levels directly, but they may mask the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) in diabetic patients.

Choice B reason: This is not a symptom that would indicate withholding a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker. Dizziness is a common side effect of many medications, especially those that lower blood pressure. Nonselective beta-adrenergic blockers can cause dizziness by reducing the heart rate and cardiac output, but this is usually mild and transient.

Choice C reason: This is not a symptom that would indicate withholding a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker. Peripheral edema is swelling of the ankles, feet, or legs, which can be caused by heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency. Nonselective beta-adrenergic blockers do not cause peripheral edema, but they may worsen it in patients with heart failure.

Choice D reason: This is a symptom that would indicate withholding a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker. Wheezing is a high-pitched sound that occurs when breathing is obstructed, usually due to asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nonselective beta-adrenergic blockers can aggravate or cause wheezing by blocking the beta-2 receptors in the lungs, which normally cause bronchodilation (widening of the airways). Therefore, nonselective beta-adrenergic blockers are contraindicated in patients with asthma or COPD.

Choice A reason: Albuterol is not used to treat acute allergies. It is a bronchodilator that relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways and improves airflow. Antihistamines are the drugs of choice for acute allergies.

Choice B reason: Albuterol is not used to treat nasal congestion. It is a bronchodilator that acts on the lungs, not the nose. Decongestants are the drugs of choice for nasal congestion.

Choice C reason: Albuterol is not used to treat dyspnea on exertion. It is a bronchodilator that is used for acute or chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Dyspnea on exertion is a symptom of various cardiac or pulmonary disorders that require further evaluation and treatment.

Choice D reason: Albuterol is used to treat acute bronchospasm. It is a bronchodilator that quickly relieves the symptoms of bronchoconstriction, such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. It is often prescribed as a rescue inhaler for patients with asthma or COPD.