A Case of Salbutamol Poisoning with Hypoglycemia

Abstract

Salbutamol, also known as albuterol is a Beta agonist that opens up the medium and large airways in the lungs. It is used to treat asthma including asthma attacks, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The most common side effects are fine tremor, anxiety, headache, muscle cramps, dry mouth, and palpitations. In higher doses it causes hypokalemia leading to ECG changes and arrhythmias. Here we are reporting a case of 13 year female with intentional consumption of 20 tablets asthalin and presented with vomiting, tremors, tachycardia, hypotension and blood glucose level of 208 mg/dl. Gastric lavage, activated charcoal, intravenous hydration and electrocardiogram (ECG) were performed.She had 1 episode of hypoglycemia 4 hours after hospital admission. Her plasma potassium level, blood sugar and QT interval were closely monitored during hospitalisation and was discharged after 72 hours.