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Albuterol |
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What is Albuterol and why is it prescribed? Albuterol is prescribed for the prevention and relief of bronchial spasms that narrow the airway. This especially applies to the treatment of asthma. Do not take Albuterol more frequently than your doctor recommends. Increasing the number of doses can be dangerous and may actually make symptoms of asthma worse. If the dose your doctor recommends does not provide relief of your symptoms, or if your symptoms become worse, consult your doctor immediately. How should you take Albuterol? Follow your doctors directions for taking Albuterol. If you are taking extended-release tablets, swallow them whole with some liquid--never chew or crush them. Shake the inhalation aerosol canister well before using and make sure it's firmly seated in the plastic mouthpiece. Before using it for the first time, prime the canister with 4 sprays into the air away from your face. Prime it with 2 sprays whenever it has not been used for at least 4 days. Use only the adapter that comes with the product; do not use this adapter with any other product. Wash the plastic mouthpiece with warm running water at least once a week to prevent medication buildup and blockage. If you are using an inhalation solution, be sure to protect it from contamination. Keep the tip of the dropper away from the lip of the bottle or any other surface. Do not use the solution if it changes color or becomes cloudy. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember; then take any remaining doses for that day at equally spaced intervals. Never take a double dose. Albuterol syrup and Albuterol solution for inhalation can be kept in the refrigerator or at room temperature. The aerosol can be stored at temperatures as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but should be at room temperature before use. Are there any Albuterol side effects? Albuterol side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Albuterol side effects may include aggression, agitation, allergic reaction, anxiety, back pain, chest pain or discomfort, chills and fever, coordination problems, cough, decreased appetite, depression, difficulty speaking, diabetes, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth and throat, excitement, fluid retention and swelling, flushing, general bodily discomfort, headache, heart palpitations, heartburn, hives, increased appetite, increased blood pressure, increased difficulty breathing, indigestion, irritability, labored breathing, leg cramps, light-headedness, muscle cramps, muscle spasm, nasal inflammation, nausea, nervousness, nightmares, nosebleed, overactivity, rapid heartbeat, rash, respiratory infection or disorder, restlessness, ringing in the ears, shakiness, sleeplessness, slowed movement, stomachache, stuffy nose, sweating, swelling of mouth and throat, taste sensation on inhalation, throat irritation, tooth discoloration, tremors, unusual taste, urinary problems, vomiting, weakness, and wheezing. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Albuterol? If Albuterol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Use Albuterol inhalation aerosol with other aerosol bronchodilators only if your doctor recommends it. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Albuterol with Antidepressants classified as MAO inhibitors (such as Nardil and Parnate, and tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil, Norpramin, Pamelor, and Tofranil), Beta blockers (heart and blood pressure drugs such as Inderal, Tenormin, and Sectral), Digoxin (Lanoxin), Drugs similar to Albuterol (such as Alupent, Brethine, Isuprel, and epinephrine), or Drugs that lower potassium levels (water pills such as Lasix or HydroDIURIL). Are there any special warnings about Albuterol? When taking Albuterol inhalation aerosol, you should not use other inhaled medications before checking with your doctor. Make sure the doctor is aware of it if you have a heart condition, seizure disorder, high blood pressure, abnormal heartbeat, overactive thyroid gland, or diabetes. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any change in heartbeat or pulse while taking this medication. You may have an immediate, serious allergic reaction to the first dose of Albuterol, causing symptoms such as hives, rash, and swelling of the mouth, throat, lips, and tongue. The drug has been known to cause life-threatening bronchial spasms, especially with the first dose from a new canister or vial. There have also been rare reports of skin reddening and peeling in children taking Albuterol syrup. Do not exceed your doctor's recommended dose of Albuterol. If you need more than usual, check with your doctor. Your asthma may be getting unstable, and you may need another medication. Do not, however, change your medication without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist. |
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