Albuterol

 
What is Albuterol?
Albuterol is prescribed for the prevention and relief of bronchial spasms that narrow the airway, especially for the treatment of asthma. 
 
 
Are there any side effects associated with Albuterol?
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. If the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.
 
How is Albuterol taken?
Follow the directions for taking Albuterol provided by your doctor. 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. Do not take two doses at once.
 
Are there any effects of taking Albuterol with other medications?
Some medicines may interact with Albuterol. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Albuterol with antidepressants classified as MAO inhibitors, beta blockers, digoxin, drugs similar to Albuterol, or drugs that lower potassium levels.
 
How should I store Albuterol?
Store Albuterol at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light.
 
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