Albuterol: What Is It? What Is It Used For? Detailed Prospectus
- Active Ingredient: Albuterol (also known as Salbutamol in some countries)
- Indications:
- Bronchodilator: Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist used to relieve bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways) in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Asthma Attacks: It is primarily used for the acute relief of symptoms during an asthma attack, such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
- Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm: Often prescribed to prevent bronchospasm triggered by exercise.
- Respiratory Distress: Used to manage respiratory distress and improve airflow in the lungs.
- Dosage Instructions:
- Adults & Children (over 4 years): For quick relief of asthma or COPD symptoms, the typical dose is 2 inhalations (90 mcg per inhalation) every 4-6 hours as needed.
- Children (under 4 years): Consult a pediatrician for proper dosing instructions.
- Special Instructions: Inhaler use should be spaced out as per the doctor’s instructions. If more than the prescribed dose is required, consult your doctor immediately. It should not be used more than 12 times per day.
- Side Effects:
- Common: Tremors, rapid heart rate, headache, nervousness, dizziness, or dry mouth.
- Severe: Chest pain, increased blood pressure, difficulty breathing, or irregular heartbeats.
- In rare cases, prolonged use or excessive use may cause paradoxical bronchospasm, a worsening of symptoms. If this occurs, seek immediate medical help.
- Warnings:
- Overuse Risk: Overusing Albuterol can lead to worsened asthma symptoms, so it is essential to adhere to the prescribed dosage.
- Heart Conditions: Caution in patients with heart disease, hypertension, or arrhythmias, as it may cause increased heart rate or blood pressure.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Albuterol is classified as Category C for pregnancy, meaning it should be used only when clearly needed. Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Drug Interactions:
- Beta-Blockers: May reduce the effectiveness of Albuterol and increase the risk of side effects.
- Other Respiratory Medications: Using Albuterol with other inhaled medications or treatments like corticosteroids may increase side effects.
- Diuretics: May interact and increase the risk of low potassium levels (hypokalemia).
- Storage Instructions:
- Store Albuterol inhalers at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the inhaler cap on when not in use to prevent contamination.
- Do not store it in your car or bathroom where it could get too hot or humid.
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Expiration Date:
- Do not use after the expiration date indicated on the inhaler packaging. Dispose of expired or unused inhalers safely.