They relax the smooth muscle of the bronchi without affecting the beta 2 receptors, but they also agitation, urine output, dilation of blood vessels, and cardiac stimulation. Overdose can dysrhythmia, seizures, and death. If given intravenously, an infusion control device should be used. Periodic blood level testing should be done. Signs of central nervous system overstimulation should be reported promptly.
Client teaching about possible interactions with other Medications and caffeine is essential.
They do not cause direct bronchodilation, so are not good to stop an attack of bronchoconstriction. Instead, they prevent the sorts of reactions which can trigger attacks of bronchoconstriction, so are better given regularly as a preventive medication. Clients may complain about the bad taste or may cough when inhaling powdered forms of Cromolyn. These prevent bronchoconstriction by suppressing inflammatory response in the lungs. They do not cause bronchodilation, they only prevent the conditions which often trigger bronchoconstriction, so are not good to stop an attack of bronchoconstriction.