Metaproterenol

A healthcare provider may prescribe metaproterenol to treat bronchospasms caused by asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The medication works by opening up the airways so that more air can get into and through the lungs. Metaproterenol can be taken only during an asthma attack or on a regular basis to prevent attacks. In clinical studies, metaproterenol started working within five minutes, and its effects typically lasted for five hours.

 

What Is Metaproterenol?

Metaproterenol sulfate (Alupent®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat bronchospasms. While bronchospasms are most common in people with asthma, they can also occur in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
 
This article focuses on the metaproterenol inhaler. Metaproterenol also comes in tablets, syrup, and a solution that is inhaled using a machine called a nebulizer.
 
(Click What Is Metaproterenol Used For? for more information on what metaproterenol is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Metaproterenol?

Metaproterenol is made by Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals.
 

How Does Metaproterenol Work?

Normally, air moves easily into and out of the lungs through a network of airways. However, during an asthma attack, the muscles around these airways tighten. This narrows the airways and makes it harder to breathe. This is called a bronchospasm.
 
Metaproterenol is part of a class of drugs called beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short. Beta agonists stimulate beta receptors in the body, including those on the muscles around the airways. This stimulation causes the muscles to relax, which opens up the airways and allows more air to get into and through the lungs.
 
Metaproterenol also has some effects on decreasing the activity of mast cells in the lungs. Mast cells play an important role in inflammation and allergic reactions.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;