In which preparation does albuterol have a longer onset and half-life compared to inhaled forms?

Albuterol is a bronchodilator commonly used to manage asthma and other respiratory conditions. When comparing its different preparations, the oral form of albuterol has a longer onset and half-life relative to inhaled forms.

When albuterol is taken orally, it is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a longer time before the drug begins to take effect compared to inhaled forms, which provide immediate delivery directly to the lungs. This results in a quicker onset of action with inhalation. Additionally, due to the nature of systemic absorption through the digestive system, the half-life of orally administered albuterol is extended compared to its inhaled counterpart, which is metabolized more rapidly once it reaches the lungs.

The other preparations would not exhibit this same profile; for instance, intravenous albuterol is also quick-acting and has a shorter half-life due to rapid metabolism. Topical and nasal delivery systems do not align with the pharmacokinetics observed with oral albuterol either, as they typically do not facilitate the same level of systemic exposure as oral administration. Thus, the choice of oral albuterol is correct due to its longer onset and half-life compared to inhaled formulations.