What bronchodilator is commonly used for wheezing and what is the preferred route?

• A. Albuterol via inhalation
• B. Ipratropium via IV
• C. Salmeterol inhaled
• D. Epinephrine intramuscular

Answer: (A)

In acute wheezing, the goal is rapid relief of airway constriction, which is best achieved with a fast-acting inhaled bronchodilator. Albuterol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist that quickly relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways, opening them within minutes. Delivering it by inhalation puts the drug directly into the lungs, providing rapid relief and minimizing systemic effects compared with injections or oral forms. In EMS and urgent care, it’s typically given by a metered-dose inhaler with a spacer or by nebulization. Long-acting options or noninhaled routes don’t provide the immediate effect needed for an acute wheeze.