What is it?

Albuterol is a fast-acting rescue medication (bronchodilator) used to treat or prevent sudden breathing problems like wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness caused by asthma or COPD. It is also used before exercise to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.

 

What does it do?

Albuterol works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and increasing airflow to the lungs.

 

Dosage

The usual dose of albuterol inhalation is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours. The effects of albuterol inhalation should last about 4 to 6 hours.

 

Your Careborne provider will determine the right dose for you.

 

How do I use it?

This depends on which brand/type of albuterol has been prescribed. For example, ProAir HFA, Proventil HFA, or Ventolin HFA must be shaken before each use while ProAir RespiClick doesn’t.

 

Follow the instructions provided with your medication. When in doubt, consult with the pharmacist while picking up a new medication.

 

Possible Side Effects

• Tremors or shakiness

• Fast or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia)

• Nervousness or anxiety

• Headache

Contact Careborne if you develop new or worsening side effects while using Albuterol.

 

Warning

Make sure you always have enough supply of Albuterol. Have your prescription refilled before you run out of it.

 

Seek medical attention if you feel like your asthma medication has stopped working or you need to use more of it. This could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack that may result in death.

 

Don’t wait until you can no longer breathe! Call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room.

 

More Information

For additional information about Albuterol, including prescribing information and potential side effects, visit:

 

Drugs.com - Albuterol