Which statement about Salmeterol and Levalbuterol dosing intervals is true?

Which statement about Salmeterol and Levalbuterol dosing intervals is true?

• A. Salmeterol every 4 hours; Levalbuterol every 12 hours
• B. Salmeterol every 12 hours; Levalbuterol every 6-8 hours
• C. Salmeterol every 8 hours; Levalbuterol every 4 hours
• D. Salmeterol every 24 hours; Levalbuterol every 2 hours

Answer: (B)

Dosing intervals reflect the duration of action and the role of the drug. Salmeterol is a long-acting inhaled beta-agonist used for maintenance, providing bronchodilation for about 12 hours, so it’s taken twice daily. Levalbuterol is a short-acting rescue agent; it works quickly but lasts only a few hours, typically needing dosing every 4–6 hours as needed (some regimens allow 6–8 hours). Therefore, the statement that salmeterol is given every 12 hours while levalbuterol is given every 6–8 hours fits their typical use. Dosing salmeterol more often or only once daily, or giving levalbuterol as often as every 2 hours, would not align with standard practice.

Dosing intervals reflect the duration of action and the role of the drug. Salmeterol is a long-acting inhaled beta-agonist used for maintenance, providing bronchodilation for about 12 hours, so it’s taken twice daily. Levalbuterol is a short-acting rescue agent; it works quickly but lasts only a few hours, typically needing dosing every 4–6 hours as needed (some regimens allow 6–8 hours). Therefore, the statement that salmeterol is given every 12 hours while levalbuterol is given every 6–8 hours fits their typical use. Dosing salmeterol more often or only once daily, or giving levalbuterol as often as every 2 hours, would not align with standard practice.