What effect does albuterol have on potassium levels?

Albuterol is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist commonly used as a bronchodilator in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). One of the pharmacological effects of albuterol is its ability to lower serum potassium levels.

This decrease in potassium occurs due to the action of albuterol on beta-2 receptors, which promotes the movement of potassium from the extracellular space (blood) into cells, particularly muscle cells. When beta-2 receptors are activated, it stimulates the Na+/K+ ATPase pump, enhancing the uptake of potassium. This potentially leads to hypokalemia, which is a condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood.

As a result, when patients are administered albuterol, especially in high doses or frequently, monitoring potassium levels becomes critical, as hypokalemia can lead to significant complications, particularly in patients with cardiac issues or those on other medications that can also lower potassium levels.

This mechanism explains why the correct answer regarding the effect of albuterol on potassium levels is a decrease in potassium levels.