Which beta-adrenergic agonist is indicated for both asthma and COPD when given as 5 mg every 20-30 minutes for three doses?

• A. Levalbuterol
• B. Salmeterol
• C. Formoterol
• D. Albuterol

Answer: (D)

Short-acting beta-2 agonists provide rapid bronchodilation and are the first-line rescue therapy for acute bronchospasm in both asthma and COPD. The dosing pattern described—5 mg given by nebulization every 20–30 minutes for three doses—is a classic regimen used with albuterol (a common SABA) in acute settings. This rapid-acting response helps relieve wheeze and breathlessness quickly in both conditions.

Long-acting beta-agonists, like salmeterol and formoterol, are used for maintenance and do not provide the immediate relief needed during an acute episode. Levalbuterol is another SABA and can be used for acute bronchospasm, but the standard rescue dosing is not the 5 mg per dose every 20–30 minutes for three doses as typical for albuterol.